The superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap in head and neck reconstruction: a retrospective review

Abstract

Introduction: The superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap is a well-established alternative to traditional fasciocutaneous flaps for reconstructive purposes. It is gaining popularity due to short raise time, flap size, ability to provide concurrent raise and donor site concealment. Here we report our initial experience using the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap to reconstruct a variety of defects in the head and neck region. Methods: Eleven patients underwent superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap reconstruction for head and neck defects by a single surgeon. Operative details, complications and intermediate outcomes were collected. We reviewed and summarised current published reports on the use of the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap in the head and neck for comparison. Results: At our institution, 11 patients received 12 superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flaps to reconstruct defects in the head and neck. There were 10 males and one female with a mean age of 60 years, and oncologic resection or complications thereof was the indication for all patients. Defects included five total laryngectomies, four cutaneous defects and two oral cavity reconstructions. The mean flap raise time was 58 minutes and the mean flap size was 92 cm2. Four patients returned to theatre, two for microvascular compromise (one arterial, one venous) and two for salvage operations performed for salivary leak after reconstruction of laryngectomy. Conclusion: Our initial experience with the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap has demonstrated it as a viable and robust free flap for complex head and neck reconstruction.