Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 15, 2025
10:07
Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
Published on: February 10, 2015
19.5K
Lateral border and scapular tip free flaps: Old school versus new school
Allen L Feng1, Hassan B Nasser2, Keith A Casper2
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Head & Neck
|October 23, 2021
Summary
Free tissue transfer using subscapular system flaps, including the lateral scapular border free flap and scapular tip free flap, offers excellent bone stock for head and neck reconstruction. Advanced positioning techniques enable a two-team approach for harvesting these valuable bony flaps.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- The subscapular system offers versatile free tissue transfer options for reconstruction.
- Scapular free flaps, specifically the lateral scapular border free flap (LSBFF) and scapular tip free flap (STFF), provide robust bone stock for head and neck defects.
- Previous limitations in patient positioning hindered the widespread adoption of these bony flaps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare and contrast the positioning and harvesting techniques of the LSBFF and STFF.
- To discuss the clinical advantages and disadvantages of each scapular bony flap.
- To highlight how current technology facilitates a two-team approach for these reconstructive procedures.
Main Methods:
- Detailed comparison of LSBFF and STFF harvesting techniques.
- Emphasis on patient positioning strategies using the Spider Limb Positioner.
- Discussion of a two-team surgical approach.
Main Results:
- Both LSBFF and STFF provide excellent bone stock for head and neck reconstruction.
- The Spider Limb Positioner and two-team approach overcome previous positioning challenges.
- Current techniques allow for efficient harvesting of both flap types.
Conclusions:
- The lateral scapular border free flap and scapular tip free flap are valuable options for bony reconstruction in head and neck surgery.
- Modern positioning technology enables a feasible two-team harvesting approach for these flaps.
- These subscapular system flaps offer significant advantages in reconstructive head and neck procedures.
