Post-burn neck contracture: effectively managed with supraclavicular artery flap

Post-burn neck contracture is one of the most common burn sequels. These contractures affect the patient significantly causing both functional limitations and esthetic disfigurements, which lead to cosmetic, functional and social problems. Our objective was to determine the role of supraclavicular artery island (SAI) flap as an option for the reconstruction of soft tissue defect of the neck after release of post-burn contracture. The study was conducted at the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Dow University of Health Sciences & Dr. Ruth KM Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi, Pakistan, from February 2015 to April 2018. Patients of both genders in any age group who required reconstruction of soft tissue defects after release of post-burn neck contracture were included. Patients with neck irradiation, trauma, failure of previous surgery, bleeding diathesis, or severe scarring at the supraclavicular region were excluded. A total of 31 supraclavicular flaps were performed in 28 cases for reconstruction of soft tissue neck defect. Mean age was 29.8 years. Patients were followed for 3 months postoperatively. Complete flap necrosis was observed in 1 (3.2%), distal necrosis in 2 (6.4%) cases, postoperative hematoma of the neck was found in 1 (3.2%) and wound dehiscence was reported in 2 (6.4%) cases. Donor site was closed primarily in 25 (81%) cases while the rest were skin grafted. Supraclavicular artery flap is an effective choice with impressive recovery, acceptable skin color match and restoration of anatomic function at the recipient site without any major complications.