Lateral arm microvascular flap in head and neck reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Head and neck cancers often require extensive surgical resection, leading to complex defects.
• Reconstruction of these defects is crucial for restoring function and improving patient quality of life.
• The lateral arm flap is a potential option for head and neck reconstruction, but its utility requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of using the lateral arm flap for head and neck reconstruction in 28 patients.
• To compare the functional outcomes, specifically swallowing, with those achieved using the pectoralis major flap.
• To detail the advantages, disadvantages, and complication rates associated with the lateral arm flap.

Main Methods:

• A prospective clinical study of 28 patients undergoing head and neck reconstruction with lateral arm flaps.
• Detailed data collection on flap survival, sensation return, complication rates, and oral feeding ability.
• A subgroup analysis comparing swallowing function with a control group reconstructed using pectoralis major flaps.

Main Results:

• Complete survival of all lateral arm flaps was observed.
• A significant return of sensation was noted in the reconstructed flaps.
• Patients with oropharyngeal defects showed superior swallowing function and oral feeding capabilities compared to the pectoralis major flap group.

Conclusions:

• The lateral arm flap is a versatile reconstructive option for head and neck defects, including oropharyngeal and midfacial areas.
• It offers the advantage of incorporating tissues of varying thickness, suitable for different defect types.
• The flap demonstrates reliable sensation restoration and low donor-site morbidity, with favorable functional outcomes.