Supraclavicular Artery Flap for Head and Neck Oncologic Reconstruction: An Emerging Alternative. (29th December 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shenoy, Ashok; Patil, Vijayraj S.; Prithvi, B. S.; Chavan, P.; Halkud, Rajshekar
• Other Names: Pathak Kumar A. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgical oncology. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-12-29
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; Oncology -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Neoplasms -- surgery; Medical Oncology; Neoplasms; General Surgery; Cancer -- Surgery; Oncology; Surgery; Periodicals; Periodicals; 616.994059
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/658989
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-1402

Abstract

Abstract : Aim . Head and Neck oncologic resections often leave complex defects which are challenging to reconstruct. The need of the hour is a versatile flap which has the advantages of both a regional flap (viz. reliable and easy to harvest) and a free flap (thin, pliable with good colour match). In this a study we assessed the usefulness of the supraclavicular artery flap in head and neck oncologic defects. Materials and Method . The flap was used as a pedicled fasciocutanous and was based on the transverse supraclavicular artery. We assessed this reconstructive option for complications as well as its and functional out comes. Results . Eleven cases underwent supraclavicular artery flap between 20011-2012 of which 5 were males and 6 females. Mean defect size was 5 cm × 6 cm. Nine donor sites were closed primarily and 1 required split skin grafting. We encountered one complete flap loss which was attributed to a band of constricting skin bridge over the vascular pedicle in a defect involving lateral third of midface. Two patient developed pharyngeocutaneous fistula (without flap loss) out of 3 patients who underwent augmentation pharyngoplasty post Near total laryngectomy. Conclusion . Supra clavicular artery flap is a thin versatile, reliable, easy to harvest, with good cosmetic and functional outcome at both ends (recipient and donor) for reconstructing head and neck oncologic defects.