Free Thoracodorsal Artery Perforator Flap for Scalp Reconstruction-Two Case Reports

Abstract

Reconstruction of defects in the scalp remains a challenge to plastic surgeons, especially when excising an extensive malignancy. We report 2 cases of scalp malignancies on the temporo-occipital area. Both received wide excision of the tumors. Free thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps were used for reconstruction of defects deep to cranium. The recipient vessels were right superficial temporal vessels. In these cases, there are some advantages for free thoracodorsal artery perforator flap transfer. They are shallow defects after scalp tumors excision. The homogeneous and thin thoracodorsal artery perforator flap is suitable for resurfacing of scalp. The size of thoracodorsal artery perforator flap provides up to 25×12 cm for extensive scalp defect. For the surgical position, to assess the flap as well as the recipient vessels and tumor ablation, they can all be performed in the lateral decubitus position without change. To a medium-to-large scalp defect reconstruction, free thoracodorsal artery perforator flap has benefits over other flaps.