Reconstructions of Small Scalp Defects with Step Flap

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Dermatologic Surgery

Background:

• Scalp defects result from trauma, burns, infections, and tumor excisions.
• Various reconstruction methods exist, including skin grafts and flaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the local step flap (z-flap) for reconstructing small scalp defects.
• To assess the safety and complication rates associated with this technique.

Main Methods:

• A prospective case-series study involving 15 patients undergoing scalp defect reconstruction.
• Utilized the local step flap for defects up to 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm after skin tumor ablation.
• Patients ranged from 40 to 72 years old, with defects caused by basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma.

Main Results:

• The local step flap proved to be an effective method for reconstructing small scalp defects.
• No flap complications, such as ischemia or necrosis, were observed in the study.
• Sufficient releasing of the flap was key to successful reconstruction.

Conclusions:

• The local step flap (z-flap) is recommended as a novel approach for small scalp defect reconstruction.
• This technique is suitable for all hair-bearing areas of the scalp.
• It provides a safe and effective solution for defects resulting from skin malignancies.