A clinical and histologic comparison between free temporoparietal and scapular fascial flaps

It is universally accepted that the fascial flap is one of the best reconstructive strategies for contour and tendon-gliding function. In this study we compare the free temporoparietal fascial flap (n = 20) and the free scapular fascial flap (n = 6) mainly for these reconstructions and discuss their characteristics, including different clinical applications and histologic examination. Our histologic analysis reveals that the free temporoparietal fascial flap has a potential like a muscle flap; moreover, it is very thin. The free scapular fascial flap is very rich in adipose tissues to prevent adhesion between the flap and underlying tissues. Both flaps in our experience can bring satisfaction to the recipient site, but the donor site of the free temporoparietal fascial flap sometimes suffers from conspicuous widened scars in short-haired patients, and the scapular fascia has a tendency to be thicker in obese patients. Therefore, we recommend using the free temporoparietal fascial flap for women, who tend to have more fat and longer hair, and the free scapular fascial flap for men, who tend to be lean and shorten their side hair.