Anatomy and application of the supraclavicular artery island flap

Abstract

The supraclavicular artery island flap is a fasciocutaneous flap harvested from the supraclavicular and deltoid regions, it is a new technology for postoperative defect repair. This flap is considered to be an ideal choice for the reconstruction of head and neck defects because it is easily and rapidly harvested and provides hairless, thin-textured, good-color-match skin, with relatively low donor-site morbidity. In recent years, the anatomical research and clinical application of the supraclavicular island flap has been increasing. This paper reviewed the history, anatomy, harvest and application of supraclavicular artery flap in order to promote the application of the flap in the head and neck surgery. Key words: Surgical Flaps; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures; Head and Neck Neoplasms