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Superficial Temporal Recipient Vessels for Craniofacial Microvascular Free-Flaps
Lina Awwad1, Doha Obed, Peter M Vogt
1Department of Plastic, Aesthetic, Hand, and Reconstructive Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|July 22, 2022
Summary
Superficial temporal vessels are suitable recipient vessels for craniofacial free-flap reconstruction, showing comparable outcomes to other options. Their technical and aesthetic benefits suggest they should be prioritized in treatment algorithms.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Recipient vessel selection is crucial for successful microvascular free-flap reconstruction in craniofacial surgery.
- The utility of superficial temporal vessels remains debated in existing literature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate factors influencing flap survival in craniofacial free-flap reconstruction.
- To assess the outcomes of using superficial temporal vessels as recipient vessels.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 39 craniofacial free-flaps performed between 2006 and 2020.
- Evaluation of recipient vessel choice, patient factors, and complications.
- Comparison of flap survival rates based on recipient vessel selection.
Main Results:
- Facial artery (20) and vein (16) were most frequently used, followed by superficial temporal artery (12) and vein (10).
- Only one case of total flap necrosis occurred.
- No significant association found between recipient vessel choice and complications or flap loss.
Conclusions:
- Superficial temporal artery and vein demonstrate comparable outcomes to other vessels for face and scalp reconstruction.
- Technical and aesthetic advantages make superficial temporal vessels a potential first-choice option in craniofacial reconstruction algorithms.
