Reconstruction of full‐thickness cheek defect with chimeric facial artery free flap: A case report. Issue 4 (8th December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Massarelli, Olindo; Vaira, Luigi Angelo; Gobbi, Roberta; Dell'aversana Orabona, Giovanni; De Riu, Giacomo
• Is Part Of: Microsurgery. Volume 38:Issue 4(2018)
• Page Start: 427
• Page End: 431
• Publication Date: 2017-12-08
• Subjects: Microsurgery -- Periodicals; 617.05
• DOI: 10.1002/micr.30282
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0738-1085

Abstract

Abstract: Full‐thickness cheek defects represent a difficult challenge for reconstructive surgeons. Multiple techniques have been described, including local, regional, and free flaps. In this report, the reconstruction of a through and through left cheek defect, resulting from a self‐inflicted gunshot injury, with a chimeric facial artery free flap is presented. The patient underwent reconstruction with a chimeric full‐thickness facial artery free flap, with 9 × 3 cm diameter skin paddle and a 6 × 5 cm myomucosal paddle, was harvested on the contralateral cheek with a 7‐cm length of facial pedicle. The flap was transferred via a microsurgical technique and an end‐to‐end microsurgical anastomosis was performed between the donor and the contralateral facial vessels. The flap was transplanted successfully and there were no donor or recipient site complications with a satisfactory esthetic result 5 years after surgery. This technique may be a good reconstructive option for medium size, full‐thickness, cheek defects allowing a "like with like" reconstruction with minimal donor‐site morbidity.