Computed Tomography Angiography and 3-dimensional Reconstruction in Cervicofacial Burn Scar Flap Reconstruction

This study evaluated the impact of computed tomography angiography (CTA) and 3-dimensional (3D) reconstruction on the outcomes of repairing cervicofacial burn scars using expanded extra-long fasciocutaneous flaps.

In a prospective cohort study, 64 patients were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 32) receiving CTA and 3D reconstruction for preoperative planning, and a control group (n = 32) without these imaging modalities. Primary outcomes included flap survival rate, postoperative complications, aesthetic outcomes, and functional restoration. In this study, we assessed inflammatory variables to evaluate postoperative inflammatory responses and oxidative stress management. We measured serum levels of interleukin-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and vascular endothelial growth factor using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, we evaluated oxidative stress markers, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase.

The intervention group demonstrated a higher flap survival rate (93.75% versus 84.38%, P = 0.038), reduced postoperative complications, and improved aesthetic and functional outcomes compared with the control group. Inflammatory markers interleukin-1 and malondialdehyde were significantly lower in the intervention group (P = 0.04 and P = 0.02, respectively), suggesting better postoperative inflammatory response and oxidative stress management. The intervention group also showed a significantly lower visual analog scale score (P = 0.038), indicating better pain management.

The integration of CTA and 3D reconstruction in the repair of cervicofacial burn scars offers significant advantages, including improved preoperative planning, increased flap survival rates, and superior aesthetic and functional outcomes.