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The Versatility of the Supraclavicular Flap for Head and Neck Reconstruction
Zubiate Illarramendi Imanol1, Ferrari Leonardo2, Cariati Paolo1
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, Hospital Universitario Virgen de Las Nieves, Granada, Spain.
Study Design:
Descriptive study of 17 patients with primary or secondary reconstruction using a supraclavicular flap.
Objective:
Describe the different options for primary and secondary reconstruction using the supraclavicular flap, as well as the complications that may arise.
Methods:
The present study analyzed the outcomes of 17 patients who underwent reconstruction using the supraclavicular artery island flap at the Maxillofacial Department of Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves (Granada, Spain) from November 2017 to June 2023.
Results:
The SCAIF served as the primary reconstructive option in 9 cases, covering skin defects in the parotid region (4 patients), cervical area (1 patient), partial tongue defects (3 patients), and cheek defects (1 patient). Additionally, the flap was used as a secondary reconstructive option in 8 patients affected by osteoradionecrosis (ORN) with bone and plate exposure. Complications included a single case of shoulder joint septic arthritis and 3 patients who experienced cervical fistula and neck infection.
Conclusions:
The supraclavicular flap represents a highly effective option for oncological reconstruction within the head and neck region. This flap is particularly useful in patients with significant clinical concerns and contraindications, both local and systemic, for microsurgical free flap procedures due to its reliability, versatility, and safety.
