Expanded thoracic triangle ultra-thin flap for repairing facial and neck defects

Abstract

Objective To investigate the method of repairing facial and neck defects. Methods From Sept. 2012 to June 2015, 18 cases of facial and neck scars were first implanted with 400-800 ml rectangular expanderin the thoracic triangle region; after 2-5 months expansion, liquidvolumereached 400-1 000 ml.After resection of facial and neck scar, defects were covered by the expanded deltopectoral thin flap; 7-10 days afterwards, flap pedicles were severed to cover the residual wound. Results A total of 19 expanders were implanted. All flaps survived after flap transfer and pedicle severance. The flap color and texture were close to the normal site.The skin was well recovered. After 2 years to 3 years follow up, all the affected areas achieved good outcome. Conclusions Ultra thin expanded deltopectoral flap is a good method for facial and neck defects reconstruction. Key words: Ultrathin flaps; Soft tissue expansion; Cicatrix