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The Free Flap Reconstruction of Facial Defects after Squamous Cell Carcinoma Excision
Tae-Yul Lee1,2, Seungjun Lee3, Seokchan Eun3
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan 15355, Republic of Korea.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
|September 28, 2024
Summary
Free flap reconstruction effectively repairs facial defects from cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), offering excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes. This method provides a good surgical option for wide skin oncologic defects, with potential for improved color matching using fraxel laser therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Plastic Surgery
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is the second most prevalent skin cancer.
- Reconstructing facial defects post-CSCC excision requires balancing function and aesthetics.
- Existing reconstruction methods present challenges in meeting diverse patient needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of free flaps for facial reconstruction after CSCC resection.
- To evaluate functional and aesthetic outcomes of free flap reconstructions in facial subunit defects.
- To assess the suitability of free flaps for extensive skin cancer defects on the face.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 14 patients undergoing facial CSCC resection and free flap reconstruction (Jan 2021 - Jun 2023).
- Data collected included patient demographics, defect localization, and follow-up duration (average 13 months).
- Outcomes assessed included flap survival, functional results, aesthetic results, and donor site healing.
Main Results:
- High success rate with free flaps; one case of partial flap necrosis reported.
- Majority of patients achieved good to excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes.
- All donor sites healed without complications.
Conclusions:
- Free flap reconstruction is a highly effective option for extensive facial oncologic defects.
- It offers favorable texture and aesthetic results, potentially enhanced by fraxel laser for color matching.
- Free flaps provide a robust solution for challenging facial reconstructions post-CSCC removal.
