Head and neck reconstruction: The supraclavicular flap: technical note.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Oncology

Background:

• Reconstruction of defects after head and neck cancer surgery presents significant challenges.
• Traditional free flaps may not always be suitable for complex oncologic resections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the supraclavicular artery island flap (SCAIF) for head and neck reconstruction.
• To assess SCAIF as an alternative to free flaps in challenging oncologic cases.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 15 patients undergoing head and neck reconstruction with SCAIF over two years.
• SCAIF was used as an alternative to free flaps in 10 cases and for revision after free flap failure in 5 cases.
• Patient data including operative details, complications, and functional outcomes were analyzed.

Main Results:

• A total of 16 SCAIFs were used in 15 patients, with a 90% flap survival rate after a mean follow-up of 13 months.
• Mean flap dimensions were 6.0cm wide and 22.0cm long, with a mean skin paddle of 8.0cm.
• No donor site complications such as dehiscence or infection were reported, and no functional morbidity was observed.

Conclusions:

• The supraclavicular artery island flap (SCAIF) is a safe and viable option for head and neck oncologic reconstruction, especially when free flaps are contraindicated.
• SCAIF serves as an excellent alternative to the radial forearm free flap for soft tissue reconstruction in vessel-depleted necks.