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Parascapular free flaps for head and neck reconstruction.
B Chandrasekhar1, J A Lorant, J J Terz
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California 91010.
American Journal of Surgery
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Parascapular free flaps offer a successful 93% success rate for single-stage head and neck reconstruction. This technique provides a pliable flap with low morbidity, making it ideal for complex defects.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Head and neck defects often require complex reconstruction.
- Free flap reconstruction is a common method for addressing these defects.
- Parascapular flaps offer unique advantages for reconstructive procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of single-stage primary reconstruction of head and neck defects using parascapular free flaps.
- To assess the complication rates and overall success of this reconstructive technique.
- To highlight the benefits of parascapular flaps in head and neck surgery.
Main Methods:
- A consecutive series of 29 patients underwent single-stage reconstruction using parascapular free flaps.
- Indications included craniofacial, oropharyngeal, and combined mandibular/soft tissue defects.
- Ablative surgery was performed for various malignancies including squamous carcinoma.
Main Results:
- The overall success rate for reconstruction was 93%.
- Common complications included flap loss (2), wound breakdown with fistula (2), and osteomyelitis (1).
- The flap demonstrated good pliability and conformity to defects, with primary wound healing being the norm.
Conclusions:
- Parascapular free flaps are a highly successful and reliable option for single-stage head and neck reconstruction.
- This technique offers lower morbidity compared to other methods and preserves muscle.
- The ability to incorporate the lateral border of the scapula facilitates single-stage mandibular reconstruction.