A Modified Technique for Harvesting Scapular Tip Flap and to Allow 2 Teams to Work at the Same Time

Abstract

Aim: 

The main aim of the present report is to describe a modified technique of tip scapular flap harvesting to allow 2 surgical teams to work at the same time and to shorten surgical times.

Materials and Methods: 

The medical records of 25 patients that had undergone maxillary or mandibular reconstruction by using a free scapular tip flap were retrospectively reviewed to identify the possible advantages and disadvantages of this type of flap.

Results: 

Thirteen patients analyzed in this series underwent maxillary reconstruction with tip scapular flap, while the other 12 patients underwent mandibular reconstruction. No failures, partial failures, or infections were evidenced in this series. Scapular tip flap allowed for acceptable esthetic and functional outcomes. In all cases, the patient was placed supine. No major complications were observed at the donor site during follow-up.

Conclusion: 

Scapular tip flap might be extremely useful for head and neck reconstruction. Pedicle length, versatility, and reliability represent the major advantages of this reconstructive recourse. Moreover, the resistance of the scapular vascular system to atherosclerosis could be helpful in patients showing contraindications to free fibula flaps.