Erick Prera1, Jens Pfeiffer2. 1. Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Freiburg, Germany. 2. Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Freiburg, Germany. Electronic address: jens.pfeiffer@uniklinik-freiburg.de.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Defects of the scalp after surgical resections of skin cancers are common conditions. The purpose of this article is to present a useful technique for the repair of large scalp defects extending to bone using galea-aponeurotic flaps and split-thickness skin grafts. METHODS AND RESULTS: The technique and cosmetic results of this method are displayed and the minimal invasiveness compared to other techniques in the elderly is underlined and discussed. CONCLUSION: Large defects extending to bone can present a significant challenge to the reconstructive head and neck surgeon because the lack of elasticity of the scalp skin may inhibit direct approximation and the lack of vascularity of the bony wound ground may not support skin grafts. Despite its excellent clinical usefulness, the presented approach has not been highlighted as yet. In conclusion, this surgical technique is a simple, fast, minimal-invasive and reliable approach for the reconstruction of large scalp defects extending to bone. It is of particular benefit in patients with a baldhead and in the elderly and infirm.
OBJECTIVE: Defects of the scalp after surgical resections of skin cancers are common conditions. The purpose of this article is to present a useful technique for the repair of large scalp defects extending to bone using galea-aponeurotic flaps and split-thickness skin grafts. METHODS AND RESULTS: The technique and cosmetic results of this method are displayed and the minimal invasiveness compared to other techniques in the elderly is underlined and discussed. CONCLUSION: Large defects extending to bone can present a significant challenge to the reconstructive head and neck surgeon because the lack of elasticity of the scalp skin may inhibit direct approximation and the lack of vascularity of the bony wound ground may not support skin grafts. Despite its excellent clinical usefulness, the presented approach has not been highlighted as yet. In conclusion, this surgical technique is a simple, fast, minimal-invasive and reliable approach for the reconstruction of large scalp defects extending to bone. It is of particular benefit in patients with a baldhead and in the elderly and infirm.