RECONSTRUCTION OF DEEP HEAD BURN WITH A FREE FLAP - A CASE REPORT

Third degree burn trauma of the head and neck requires an interdisciplinary approach. After emergency care and hemodynamic stabilization of the patient the focus lies on the reconstruction of the damaged tissue. The options of reconstruction are influenced by the general condition of the patient and by the condition of the surrounding tissues. The deep defects of the head are dangerous for a high risk of wound infection and possible fatal complications. In particular cases the first methods of choice for closure of the defect may be ineffective and a free flap transfer should be considered. We present a case report of a 62-year-old woman who suffered third degree burn trauma of the head and neck leading to a deep defect of the forehead reaching behind the hairline. On the bottom there was an exposed bone with no healing tendency. Due to surrounding fragile scarred tissue we chose a free flap transfer using serratus anterior muscle as a method of closure. The flap was fully healed and provided good aesthetic and functional outcome.