Refining the extended circumflex scapular flap for neck burn reconstruction: A 30-year experience

Neck burn sequelae remain a major challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. To achieve satisfactory functional and aesthetic results, the anterior neck aesthetic unit must be covered as a single unit. In cases where free flaps are required, harvesting a flap of sufficient size can cause major donor site morbidity. In 1994, we published our favorable 6-year experience of reconstructing neck burn sequelae with an extended circumflex scapular flap (ECSF). Since then, we have made several modifications to the technique, resulting in improved long-term functional and aesthetic results. Herein, we present our 30-year, 150-patient experience with the ECSF flap for the treatment of anterior neck burn sequelae.

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 150 consecutive patients who underwent ECSF procedure for neck resurfacing performed or supervised by the senior author from 1986 to 2015. All cases were assessed for function, aesthetics, satisfaction, and complications.

A total of 160 ECSFs were used in 150 patients. Ninety-nine patients were available for updated follow-up [1-30 years (mean, 15.3)]. At the last follow-up, 92 patients regained full range of motion, and 90 patients had acceptable cervicomental angle (<110°). The mean patient satisfaction score was 4.8/5. Nine flaps (5.6%) failed completely and were successfully replaced. Twenty-two patients (15%) had distal necrosis of the flap. Fifteen of these 22 patients underwent complementary flaps to replace the necrotic area, and all 15 patients regained full range of motion.

For neck burn sequelae, the ECSF provides safe and effective long-term functional and aesthetic results with minimal donor site morbidity.