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Updated: Apr 17, 2026
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Coronoid-Temporalis Pedicled Flap for Orbital Floor Defect Reconstruction
Published on: December 5, 2025
945
Regional flaps in head and neck reconstruction: a reappraisal
Giacomo Colletti1, Karim Tewfik2, Alessandro Bardazzi2
1Assistant, Division of Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, San Paolo Hospital, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
Summary
Regional pedicled flaps are effective and reliable for head and neck reconstruction, offering a less expensive alternative to free flaps. Their resurgence is linked to economic factors and evolving healthcare needs.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Head and Neck Reconstruction
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Review of marketing principles for surgical innovations.
- Analysis of the increasing popularity of regional pedicled flaps in head and neck reconstruction.
Observation:
- A retrospective review of 45 consecutive regional flap reconstructions performed between January 2009 and January 2014.
- Flap types included pectoralis major, lower trapezius, supraclavicular, latissimus dorsi, and temporal fasciocutaneous flaps.
Findings:
- Two pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps experienced partial or complete cutaneous paddle necrosis; however, no complete flap loss occurred.
- Acceptable morphologic and functional outcomes were achieved in 43 patients at 6-month follow-up.
- Two patients expired due to sepsis-related complications.
Implications:
- Regional flaps present a reliable and cost-effective option compared to free flaps for head and neck defects.
- The economic climate and global healthcare adaptations contribute to the renewed adoption of regional flap techniques.
- This study supports the continued use and development of regional flaps in reconstructive surgery.
