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Inhibition of Wound Epidermis Formation via Full Skin Flap Surgery During Axolotl Limb Regeneration
Published on: June 24, 2020
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The Spider Limb Positioner in subscapular system free flaps.
Jayne R Stevens1, Andrew J Rosko1, Emily Marchiano1
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
Oral Oncology
|September 18, 2018
Summary
A novel limb positioner enables simultaneous two-team surgery for head and neck reconstruction using subscapular flaps. This technique improves efficiency and safety in complex reconstructive procedures.
Area of Science:
- Microsurgery
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- The subscapular system offers versatile flaps for head and neck reconstruction.
- Patient positioning for subscapular flaps can hinder simultaneous ablative and reconstructive surgery.
- A novel application of an orthopedic limb positioner is explored to overcome this limitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and evaluate the use of an upper extremity limb positioner for concurrent two-team head and neck surgery.
- To assess the feasibility and safety of this positioning technique for subscapular free flap harvest.
Main Methods:
- A semidecubitus position was employed using a bean bag and the Spider Limb Positioner for upper extremity support.
- This facilitated subscapular donor site dissection, allowing concurrent ablative and reconstructive team work.
Main Results:
- The technique was successfully used in 78 procedures across 73 patients.
- Chimeric flaps were utilized in 38% of cases, with an average operative time of 466 minutes.
- No positioning-related complications, including nerve compression injuries, were reported.
Conclusions:
- The Spider Limb Positioner, in conjunction with a semidecubitus position, facilitates simultaneous two-team head and neck reconstruction.
- This approach enhances exposure for the reconstructive team without impeding the ablative team's access.
- Scapular and parascapular free flaps are valuable reconstructive options when this positioning strategy is employed.
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