Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery
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Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Aug 2011
ReviewThe expanding role of the anterolateral thigh free flap in head and neck reconstruction.
To review the recent literature on the expanding use of the anterolateral thigh free flap for head and neck reconstruction. ⋯ The role of the anterolateral thigh free flap in reconstructing head and neck defects is ever expanding, with many novel harvesting and reconstructive techniques described in recent years. Because of the large surface area of the anterolateral thigh, as well as the ability to tailor variable amounts of skin, muscle, fat, or fascia associated with this flap, the reconstruction options are numerous. More importantly, good functional and aesthetic outcomes are achievable with an associated low morbidity of the donor site.
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Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Aug 2011
Review Comparative StudySupraclavicular artery island flap for reconstructing defects in the head and neck region.
The supraclavicular artery island flap is a rotation flap that offers a versatile reconstructive option for head and neck defects. Recent anatomical studies have improved our understanding of the vascular supply of the supraclavicular artery island flap. Furthermore, several published large series describe the utility and reliability of this flap. In this article, we review the scientific literature describing the vascular anatomy of the supraclavicular artery island flap, its clinical application, and limitations in reconstructing defects in the head and neck region. ⋯ The supraclavicular artery island flap offers a versatile and well tolerated option in reconstruction of head and neck defects with several advantages over more traditional regional flaps and distant-free flaps.