Composite fronto-orbital reconstruction using a subscapular chimeric flap

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

• Composite defects in the fronto-orbital region pose significant reconstructive challenges.
• Autogenous reconstruction necessitates pliable skin flaps and precisely osteotomized bone grafts.
• Previous reconstructive attempts or local tissue unavailability often complicate these defects.

Observation:

• A patient with a traumatic fronto-orbital defect was treated.
• The defect involved both soft tissue and bony components requiring complex reconstruction.
• The thoracodorsal artery perforator/scapular bone chimeric flap was utilized for reconstruction.

Findings:

• The thoracodorsal artery perforator/scapular bone chimeric flap enabled successful single-stage reconstruction.
• This flap provided both the necessary pliable skin and the osteotomizable bone component.
• The flap's design allowed for complex three-dimensional inset of tissue components.

Implications:

• The thoracodorsal artery perforator/scapular bone chimeric flap is a versatile option for complex post-traumatic fronto-orbital defects.
• The subscapular system serves as a valuable donor site for challenging composite reconstructions.
• This technique offers a reliable solution when local reconstructive options are limited or have failed.