Perforator flaps in head and neck surgery

Where to find facial artery perforators: A reference point

“…This was done in a highly meticulous manner using the 'open cast' technique 4 : scissors were used to advance along the path of the FA by gentle probing; subcutaneous tissue or muscle was cut only when further advancement was not possible. This was repeated to delineate individual perforating branches from the FA.…”

Application of lateral thoracic flap in maxillofacial defect reconstruction: Experience with 28 cases

“…17 The thoraco-dorsal artery perforator flap, which is based on the thoraco-dorsal vessels, can also be used for head and neck reconstruction, and as perforator flap surgery continues to advance, these reconstruction methods may surpass the gold-standard radial forearm flap in head and neck soft tissue reconstruction. 16 In conclusion, clinical application of the LT flap is a reliable technique for reconstruction of maxillofacial tissue defects with low functional loss of the donor site and more favorable aesthetic outcome. The LT flap is most suitable for younger patients who are more concerned about donorsite function and cosmesis and who possess better vascular conditions for anastomosis compared to older adult patients.…”

“…While the radial forearm flap, which doesn't involve muscle harvest, is most commonly applied for head and neck soft tissue reconstruction because of its pliability, large consistent pedicle and reliability, it still has limitations in coverage of extensive areas and many surgeons will choose another flap such a lattisimus dorsi or rectus abdominis. 16 These latter, however, can be bulky because of muscle content. In far eastern countries, the anterolateral thigh flap based on the lateral circumflex femoral vessels is the flap of choice for soft tissue head and neck reconstruction.…”

Single stage Delto-pectoral flap cover for large defects following extensive neck dissection

“…Free flaps are excellent options for head and neck reconstruction and gives very good cosmetic and functional outcome (5) . However, these require sophisticated equipments and surgical expertise that may not be readily available, especially in our part of the world.…”