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Caudal trapezius composite island flap for extensive shoulder defects
1Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital and Center, Bombay, India.
Acta Chirurgiae Plasticae
|January 1, 1996
Summary
The trapezius composite flap, useful in head and neck cancer reconstruction, offers versatile tissue repair for shoulder, neck, and cheek defects. Its anatomy and blood supply are detailed, with a case study on shoulder reconstruction presented.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Anatomy
- Head and Neck Oncology
Background:
- The trapezius composite flap was initially described by Demergasso in 1979.
- Mathes and Nahai detailed the caudal trapezius island flap for head and neck cancer reconstruction.
- Baek and Biller identified the descending branch of the transverse cervical artery as a key blood supply.
Observation:
- The trapezius muscle's anatomy, vascular territories, and function are crucial for flap viability.
- This flap is particularly useful for reconstructing defects in the shoulder, neck, and cheek regions.
- A case involving the reconstruction of extensive shoulder tissue defects using this flap is presented.
Findings:
- The trapezius composite flap provides a reliable option for complex tissue defect reconstruction.
- Understanding the vascular supply, particularly the descending branch of the transverse cervical artery, is essential.
- The flap's versatility allows for application in various anatomical locations following oncological resection.
Implications:
- This flap expands reconstructive options in head and neck cancer surgery.
- It enables the restoration of function and aesthetics in challenging defect scenarios.
- Further studies can explore its application in other reconstructive fields.