Journal of reconstructive microsurgery
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J Reconstr Microsurg · May 2011
Scalp reconstruction with inverted myocutaneous latissimus free flap and unmeshed skin graft.
Limited skin paddle size, peripheral thinning, or lack of cerebral expansion after radiotherapy may necessitate secondary sculpting after latissimus free flap reconstruction of large scalp defects. This series presents a novel modification of the myocutaneous latissimus dorsi free flap for use in large scalp defects. After superficial artery isolation, titanium mesh is placed into the calvarial defect to recapitulate the inner table. ⋯ Cosmesis was most notably limited by skin graft joint lines. No patients underwent secondary surgical revision. The inverted myocutaneous latissimus free flap is a safe and effective method for reconstructing large or irradiated scalp defects.
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J Reconstr Microsurg · May 2011
Comparative StudyUltrasound-assisted lipoplasty in addition to suction-assisted lipoplasty for perforator free flap thinning.
Perforator flaps are routinely used in upper- and lower-extremity reconstruction. Increased usage of these flaps as well as their intraoperative thinning has been described; however, there are limited reports of thinning in the postoperative period. From 2005 to 2010, thinning procedures were performed on 11 patients with 11 flaps. ⋯ With aggressive, staged thinning procedures, there were no cases of partial or complete flap necrosis. Given the increasing number of perforator flaps being performed for upper- and lower-extremity reconstruction, a larger number of cutaneous flaps will need postoperative thinning. Ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty has been found to be a useful modality in revision of these flaps.
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J Reconstr Microsurg · May 2011
Comparative StudySuitability of the anterolateral thigh perforator flap and the soleus perforator flap for intraoral reconstruction: a retrospective study.
Perforator flaps are suitable for numerous reconstructive purposes. However, there are few data about their usefulness for intraoral reconstruction. We reviewed data of 101 patients who were reconstructed by two types of perforator flaps after oral cancer. ⋯ Perforator flaps from both donor sites can be used for intraoral reconstruction with good functional results; however, despite primary thinning, the ALT flap can be voluminous in small and flat defects. Here, soleus perforator flaps adapt better to the oral mucosa. The ALT perforator flap is more reliable and serves as a safe alternative to the radial forearm flap.