Use Of Skin Flaps Research Articles

Large facial malignant tumor defect reconstruction using keystone flap: a case report

Background: Facial defects resulting from a large malignant tumor excision are often too extensive for primary closure, necessitating the use of skin flaps or grafts. The challenge is particularly pronounced when the defects occur in the facial region. Deciding how to reconstruct facial defects involves considering various factors, with aesthetics taking precedence over other body parts. The preferred method for closing these defects is ideally by transposing local tissues with similar qualities, especially in cases where primary closure is not feasible due to the size of the defect. Case presentation: A case report study of a 60-years-old female patient referred to H. Adam Malik Hospital and underwent excision of malignant tumor and left with large defect on the right cheek and 2/3 upper & 1/3 lower vermillion. Skin flap techniques, such as the advancement flap, rotation flap, and transposition flap, are useful for closing small defects. When dealing with moderate to large-sized defects, especially in high-tension areas, a combination of flap types may be necessary. Over the past two decades, pedicled perforator flaps, notably the keystone flap design, have gained popularity as a viable option. Understanding facial aesthetic units, subunits, and factors influencing incision/scar placement is crucial for clinicians aiming to achieve the most cosmetically pleasing outcome. Conclusions: The presented case details the successful closure of a sizable cheek defect post squamous cell carcinoma excision surgery, achieved through the utilization of a KPIF Type IIA. Patient showed good flap survival.

Comparison of the application methods and effects of skin flaps in the repair of defects in different parts of the nose according to the concept of aesthetic nosesubunits

Objective: To analyze the difference of application methods and effects of local flap in small and medium-sized defects of different aesthetic subunits of nose, in order to provide reference for clinical work. Methods: A retrospective analysis was made on 59 patients with external nasal masses and scars who underwent surgical treatment in the Department of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery of the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University from July 1, 2021 to January 30, 2022, including 27 females and 32 males, aged 15 to 69 years. Using Likert scale, the repair methods and effects of local flap for nasal soft tissue defects were evaluated and summarized from three aspects of texture, flatness and scar concealment. GraphPad Prism 5.0 software was used for data statistics and analysis. Results: The use of skin flaps to repair small and medium-sized areas of the nose could achieve satisfactory results. For patients with different subunits, in terms of skin flatness and scar concealment degree in the operation area, patients' satisfaction with the dorsal and lateral nasal areas was higher than that of the alar and tip areas, respectively (F=6.40, P=0.001; F=10.57, P<0.001). For patients with different skin flap repair methods, the satisfaction of patients with Z-plasty and Dufourmentel skin flap was higher than that of other skin flap repair methods (F=4.38, P=0.002), and the satisfaction of patients with Dufourmentel skin flap was the highest in the degree of scar concealment (F=2.57, P=0.038). Conclusions: In the small and medium-sized defects of the nose, the use of multiple local flaps can achieve good cosmetic effects and functional recovery. The operator should select the appropriate flap repair method according to the characteristics of different aesthetic subunits of the nose.

Benefits of Reducing Incision Tension in Hard-To-Close Keloid Surgery.

Benefits of Reducing Incision Tension in Hard-To-Close Keloid Surgery.

Use of skin flaps for reconstructive surgery in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus).

The aim of the study was to investigate the use of single-pedicle advancement flaps in the fixed skin regions of the head, neck and paravertebral region in guinea pigs. Ultrasonography was performed on the guinea pigs to visualise the vascular anatomy of the looser regions of the thorax and abdomen and the more fixed paravertebral region and neck. Flap surgeries were then planned and undertaken on seven guinea pigs, with six having tumours on the lip, under the eye, the forehead, the neck or the paravertebral pelvic region, and one having a large paravertebral pelvic scar of unknown origin altering the animal's movement. The previously recommended 2:1 flap length:base width ratio was not enough in most cases, so larger flaps (3.5:1) were required. All seven single-pedicle advancement flaps survived and healed with outstanding results. The authors recommend to use reconstructive surgery in guinea pigs when there is a need to close large or difficult wounds, even on areas of fixed skin. Adequate arterial supply and sufficient venous outflow can be provided with larger flap length:base width ratios than previously suggested and can lead to full recovery.

Experience with flap repair after vulvar carcinoma resection: a retrospective observational study of 26 cases.

BackgroundA defect caused by the radical resection of vulvar cancer requires repair with flap transplantation or vulvoplasty. However, in clinical practice, the surgeons encounter difficulties while using a flap to repair the wound. Therefore, this study aimed to present a review of our practice of post-surgical defect reconstruction in cases using different skin flaps.MethodsAn observational study was performed involving 26 patients with vulvar cancer who were admitted to Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital between February 2015 and February 2020 for surgical and reconstructive procedures. The clinical data of these 26 patients were analyzed. All patients underwent radical resection of vulvar cancer, followed by post-surgical defect repair using random flap or axial flap transplantation (even for very complex defects). The clinical variables collected and the assessment of efficacy included survival of the flap, history of dysfunction of the recipient area, such as scar contracture, and satisfaction of the patient with the shape after external vaginal surgery.ResultsAmong the 26 cases in this study, all patients underwent 38 soft tissue reconstruction procedures for vulvar perineal defects during the study period. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most commonly diagnosed cancer (80.8%). The average size of the defect was 9.3×7 cm2. Rhomboid flaps were the most commonly used flaps for performing reconstruction in both the primary and recurrent groups. Poor wound healing was the most commonly discovered complication, which occurred in three of the 38 flaps (7.9%) used. Previous surgery or radiotherapy did not increase the rate of complications following successful reconstruction.ConclusionsDifferent skin flaps are effective premium options for post-surgical defect reconstruction, and the selective use of skin flaps for treating vulvar defects preserves the vulvar morphology and allows for relatively better functionality.

Current Status of Experimental Animal Skin Flap Models: Ischemic Preconditioning and Molecular Factors.

Skin flaps are necessary in plastic and reconstructive surgery for the removal of skin cancer, wounds, and ulcers. A skin flap is a portion of skin with its own blood supply that is partially separated from its original position and moved from one place to another. The use of skin flaps is often accompanied by cell necrosis or apoptosis due to ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury. Proinflammatory cytokines, such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), inhibitor of kappa B (IκB), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and oxygen free radicals are known causative agents of cell necrosis and apoptosis. To prevent I/R injury, many investigators have suggested the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines, stem-cell therapies, and drug-based therapies. Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) is a strategy used to prevent I/R injury. IPC is an experimental technique that uses short-term repetition of occlusion and reperfusion to adapt the area to the loss of blood supply. IPC can prevent I/R injury by inhibiting proinflammatory cytokine activity. Various stem cell applications have been studied to facilitate flap survival and promote angiogenesis and vascularization in animal models. The possibility of constructing tissue engineered flaps has also been investigated. Although numerous animal studies have been published, clinical data with regard to IPC in flap reconstruction have never been reported. In this study, we present various experimental skin flap methods, IPC methods, and methods utilizing molecular factors associated with IPC.

NIR‐II imaging with ICG for identifying perforators, assessing flap status and predicting division timing of pedicled flaps in a porcine model

The use of skin flaps to fill large defects is a key surgical technique in reconstructive surgery, effective real-time in vivo imaging for flap design and use is urgent. Currently, fluorescent imaging in the second NIR window (NIR-II; 1000-1700 nm) is characterized by non-radiation, less expensive and higher resolution in comparisons with the first NIR window (NIR-I; 700-900 nm) and other traditional imaging modalities. In this article, we identified the location and numbers of perforators and choke zone via NIR-II imaging. Then, eight abdominal perforator flaps were established and the perfusion zones were evaluatedat special time points. Finally, after eight pedicled flaps establishment, NIR-II imaging was used to guide the optimal timing for division of flap pedicle. The results showed that NIR-II fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green (ICG) can reliably visualize vascular supply, which makes it to be an accurate and in vivo imaging approach to flap clinical design and use.

Use of random pattern skin flaps for wound closure in two horses

SummaryA 9‐year‐old Thoroughbred broodmare presented with a mass rostral to the medial canthus of the left eye. The mass was removed under general anaesthesia and the wound bed infiltrated with carboplatin emulsion before partially closing using a Z‐plasty. The mass recurred and subsequently was resected twice. It has not recurred 68 weeks post‐treatment. The second case describes removal of a granulomatous mass from the metatarsus of a yearling Thoroughbred colt. Skin expanders and a rotational flap were used to allow tension‐free closure. This required two separate surgeries to firstly insert the skin expanders and secondly to remove the mass, the expanders and to close the defect. The wound healed with good cosmesis. There have been few reports on the use of skin flaps in equine reconstructive surgery in the last 30 years. This report details two cases of wound closure where skin flaps were used to achieve primary intention wound healing.

PERFORMANCE STATUS AND QUALITY OF LIFE AFTER RECONSTRUCTIONS OF BUCCAL MUCOSAL AND RETROMOLAR TRIGONE DEFECTS BY SKIN AND FASCIAL FLAPS IN ONCOLOGYCAL PATIENTS

The aim: of the study is to compare surgical and functional results as well as quality of life after use of skin flaps - platysma myocutaneus flap, supraclavicular artery flap and fascial flaps - temporoparietal fascial flap, buccal fat pad for plastic closure of the buccal and retromolar trigone mucous surgical defects in cancer patients. Material and methods: A retrospective comparative analysis of the results of surgical treatment of buccal and retromolar trigone mucosal cancer in 56 patients operated from 2009 to 2014 was made. The patients were divided into two groups: the first included 26 patients, with reconstruction of fascial flaps, the second group included 30 patients, with reconstruction of postoperative defects with skin flaps. Surgical results: the average duration of surgery, the average duration of inpatient treatment and the presence of complications were compared in the both groups. Functional results in both groups were compared in 6 and 12 months after surgery with the Performance Status Scale for Head and Neck Cancer Patients (PSS-HN), and quality of life was assessed by the University of Washington Quality of Life questionnaire, version 4. Results: Average duration of surgery, average time of inpatient treatment, and postoperative complications did not differ significantly in both groups (P> 0.05). Data of performance status and quality of life in patients with reconstruction of mucosal defects and retromolar trigone with skin flaps were significantly better (P> 0.05) in 6 and 12 months after surgery, compared with the group of patients who underwent defect reconstruction with fascial flaps. Conclusions: The method of choice in reconstruction of medium and large defects of the buccal and the retromolar trigone mucous is usage of skin flaps: the platysma myocutaneus flap and the flap of the supraclavicular artery.

Treatment options for partial auricle reconstruction: a prospective study of outcomes and patient satisfaction.

To evaluate the various methods and outcomes of post-traumatic partial auricle wound reconstruction, and to review the benefit to the patient's quality of life and their psychological improvement after the operation. The prospective study included patients who suffered from post-traumatic partial auricular wounds. The defects were repaired using various techniques including simple local cutaneous advancement flaps, tube flaps, cartilage framework using conchal and costal cartilage with local skin flap cover. A total of 18 patients were included, with a male predominance (sex ratio: 7:2), mean age with standard deviation of 31.66 ±9.27 years. Causes included road traffic accident (RTA), assault, human and insect bite and avulsion injuries. Injuries were sustained in the upper third of the auricle (n=8); middle third (n=5), lower third (n=3), and upper two-thirds (n=2). Out of the 18 patients, wound were repaired using post auricular mastoid skin flap (n=7); local superior and inferior chondrocutaneous flap (n=3); costal cartilage as a cartilage framework (n=4), temporoparietal fascia used to cover the costal cartilage graft (n=1), and conchal cartilage as a cartilage framework (n=3). In our study 13/18 patients were 'highly satisfied' with the aesthetic outcome, 3/18 were 'moderately satisfied', and 2/18 were 'slightly satisfied'. None were dissatisfied by the postoperative result. In terms of objective assessment, patient outcome in two patients was graded 'good' while the outcome of remaining patients (n=16) was graded as 'excellent'. The use of skin flaps in the post-auricular region and the mastoid region associated with or without cartilage framework yields good cosmetic and functional result. The various techniques used for ear reconstruction yielded 100% satisfactory results in terms of functional outcome as well as boosting the confidence of patients.

A modified cutaneous ureterostomy provides satisfactory short and midterm outcomes in select cases.

We present the outcomes of modification of cutaneous ureterostomy by extreme lateralization of the stoma and use of skin flap for formation of ureterostomy. Between June 2012 and June 2016, 36 patients had modified cutaneous ureterostomy for ureteral obstruction due to pelvic malignancy or genitourinary tuberculosis. Transureteroureterostomy was made with cutaneous stoma at anterior axillary line between iliac crest and lower rib cage, instead of spinoumbilical line. To prevent stenosis a 'V' shaped skin was fed into the stoma. Double J stents were used in all patients for 6 weeks. Perioperative morbidity and mortality were evaluated. All patients were followed up at 3 month intervals. Of 36 patients, 22 had radical cystoprostatectomy (including nephroureterectomy in 2 patients) and 7 had palliative cystectomy. Others had locally advanced prostate cancer (n=1), locally advanced cervical cancer (n=3), ovarian cancer (n=1) and genitourinary tuberculosis with small capacity bladder along with a large vesicovaginal fistula (n=1). One patient developed ureteral necrosis requiring conversion to ileal conduit. Three patients developed stomal stenosis: two were managed by self-dilatation while one required revision of stoma. Thirteen patients died of the disease at a median follow up of 6 months with functioning stoma. Remaining 19 patients survived without any complications at a median follow-up of 20.5 months (5.5-43.5 months). None of the patients had any problem related to ureterostomy bag application. Modified lateral cutaneous ureterostomy provides relatively straighter and shorter retroperitoneal course of ureter with acceptable morbidity and avoids use of bowel in selected patients.

Use of Reverse Second Dorsal Metacarpal Artery Flap for the Treatment of First Web Retraction

Objective: To describe and present the results of surgical technique with the use of skin flap of second dorsal metacarpal artery retrograde flow to the treatment of patients with retraction of the first web space of the hand and, when necessary, apply longer flaps to cover the palm of the hand. Methods: Sixteen patients were operated with retraction of the first web space. In 6 patients, there was also scar retraction of the palm, in addition to the web space. Before surgery, the angle of opening of the first web space was measured, and the degree of shrinkage was divided into 3 groups: mild, moderate, and severe. Eleven cases were considered serious and 5 moderate. The authors describe in detail the surgical technique. Results: All 16 flaps had survival (100 cases). In 3 cases, there was partial suffering of about 10% of the distal area of the flap with transient ischemia and in 2 cases epidermolysis occurred, all with satisfying results. Retail dimensions ranged on average 10 cm in length and 2.2 cm in width, on average. In 87.5% of the cases there was total closure of the donor area. The opening of the first commissure ranged from 51° to 83° (average of 73.5°). Conclusion: The use of the cutaneous flap of the second metacarpal dorsal artery is reliable and it shows good results for the treatment of retractions of the first web space. It can be considered a good option for cases that present beyond the web space, retraction of the palm.

TONGUE CANCER SURGERY EVOLUTION, NEW TECHNOLOGIES, REHABILATION AND QUALITY OF LIFE

In this article we conducted an analysis of methods and results of surgical treatment of tongue cancer for the time period of 30 years. Different technologies of surgical treatment of tongue cancer, both with and without the reconstructive operation, were used during the analyzed period. Aim - to improve the oncological and functional results of surgical treatment of the tongue squamous cell carcinoma. Within the few decades, the ideology of tongue cancer treatment has changed from simple resection to enhanced combined operation with one-stage reconstruction. Materials and methods. The unprecedented in its positive qualities and set of benefits operation was developed, with use of skin flap from the anterior surface of the neck, including the infrahyoid muscles, at different extents of resection or complete removal of the tongue. Conclusion. The positive functional and aesthetic results of surgical treatment of tongue cancer with high oncological reliability were obtained.

Role of adipose-derived stromal cells in pedicle skin flap survival in experimental animal models.

The use of skin flaps in reconstructive surgery is the first-line surgical treatment for the reconstruction of skin defects and is essentially considered the starting point of plastic surgery. Despite their excellent usability, their application includes general surgical risks or possible complications, the primary and most common is necrosis of the flap. To improve flap survival, researchers have used different methods, including the use of adipose-derived stem cells, with significant positive results. In our research we will report the use of adipose-derived stem cells in pedicle skin flap survival based on current literature on various experimental models in animals.

The use of skin flaps in small animal reconstructive surgery

A range of skin flap techniques exist allowing surgeons to close wounds that are not amenable to simple, direct closure. Simple advancement and transposition flaps can be used wherever abundant skin exists in close proximity to the defect. Axial pattern flaps are based on known vascular domains and allow large areas of skin to be mobilised to close extensive wounds within their arc of rotation. Postoperative complications will be minimised when careful surgical technique is employed.

Pollicisation: our techniques

Pollicization remains one of the most useful surgeries in the field of hand surgery as it involves creation of a new thumb which contributes to 40 percent of hand function. It involves transfer of one of the fingers to create a new functioning thumb when it is absent. The surgery demands an intelligent use of skin flaps, osteotomy and muscle balancing to create an almost normal looking aesthetic thumb. The principles advocated by Buck-Gramcko remain as standards for us to adhere. This involves: 1) A carefully planned skin incision, 2) Neurovascular Dissection, 3) Skeletal readjustment to achieve length, orientation and alignment and 4) Optimum muscle balance to get the strength and stability for the new thumb. We present a review based on experience of more than 200 pollicizations, briefly discussing indications, refinements in the critical steps of the technique, long term results and complications. Pollicization continues to be one of the most useful surgeries in improving the function of the hand and has stood the test of time. Its long term results clearly show that patients across all age groups with different etiologies use the pollicized thumb activity.

The use of compound muscle action potentials (CMAP) for postoperative monitoring of free functioning gracilis muscle transfer: A preliminary report

The use of skin flap as a monitoring tool cannot sensitively reflect the vascularity of a functioning free muscle transfer (FFMT), and it may result in delayed detection of vascular compromise. We report the use of compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) as a supplemental method in the monitoring of free gracilis transfers. In 46 successful free gracilis transfers in 23 patients following total brachial plexus injury (BPI), CMAPs were measured every hour for 75h postoperatively. We analyzed the amplitude, latency, and duration to understand the Wallerian degeneration effect and thresholds to warn vascular compromise clinically. After the primary study, we applied CMAP monitoring for 23 clinical cases. Three basic wave patterns of the CMAPs with or without dispersion were recognized. Forty-two CMAPs were successfully traced and 27 CMAPs with one constant wave pattern showed two types of amplitude and latency changes; positive and negative Wallerian degeneration. The mean 1-h maximal decreases of amplitudes and elongation of latency were 36% and 77%, respectively; however, they returned to the original pattern within 1h. There were no significant differences of reinnervation time and final strength of elbow flexion between these 46 muscle transfers. In the clinical series, we experienced two cases of vascular compromise that showed CMAP critical alterations without skin flap changes. Our preliminary results show that the measurement of CMAPs has great potential for the sensitive and reliable monitoring of muscle circulation after FFMT. The clinical critical values of CMAP amplitude changes for vascular compromise are >40% sudden decrease, and they continued to decrease further. This technique is most useful for postoperative vascular monitoring of a buried muscle flap, and it is proven to be of clinical significance in current vascular compromised cases. Level Ⅳ, Case Series.

The use of skin flaps for wound reconstruction

Wound reconstruction may be necessary for traumatic wounds, or iatrogenic wounds. The latter are usually the result of excision of malignant skin tumours. It is important not to compromise the successful removal of a malignant tumour by taking too small a margin. However, attempts to suture large wounds by simple apposition may result in tension at the wound edges. Wounds do not heal, or heal very poorly, when under any tension. Skin flaps provide a versatile way of reconstructing wounds without tension. This article outlines the main types and uses of skin flaps and illustrates these with case examples.

Skin Graft

Skin graft is one of the most indispensable techniques in plastic surgery and dermatology. Skin grafts are used in a variety of clinical situations, such as traumatic wounds, defects after oncologic resection, burn reconstruction, scar contracture release, congenital skin deficiencies, hair restoration, vitiligo, and nipple-areola reconstruction. Skin grafts are generally avoided in the management of more complex wounds. Conditions with deep spaces and exposed bones normally require the use of skin flaps or muscle flaps. In the present review, we describe how to perform skin grafting successfully, and some variation of skin grafting.

Skin Flaps

Open wounds, particularly around the face, often require complicated techniques for optimal closure. The approach to the closure of the complicated wound depends largely on the nature of the wound, including the location and size of the defect, the functional outcome after closure, the medical comorbidities of the patient, neighboring structures, and whether the defect is secondary to a malignancy or trauma. The goals of wound management are optimal aesthetic outcome, preservation of function, and patient satisfaction. The authors briefly review basic skin closure options and discuss use of skin flaps, particularly of the head and neck region.