Fronto-orbital leptomeningeal cyst manifested with exophthalmus

A 41-year-old female patient with fronto-orbital leptomeningeal cyst is presented. After decompression of the cyst, repair of bone and dura defects were achieved with autogenous bone grafts and pericranial flap. Our case was very interesting in several aspects: a head trauma at 3 years of age and manifestation of clinical symptoms (headaches and exophthalmia) after almost 4 decades that had been progressive for 6 months and a rare location (fronto-orbital region) that required a special management. A thorough history is crucial in such cases because clinical symptoms might appear after decades. An old fracture that is surrounded by thin calvarial tissue in conjunction with intracranial cystic formation should make one take a leptomeningeal cyst into consideration in differential diagnosis. Extensive dissection and adequate access osteotomies followed by repair with autologous and vascular tissues are the key factors for a successful outcome in the management of fronto-orbital pathologies.     

Use of a titanium cutting guide to assist raising the composite radial forearm free flap

The use of composite radial free tissue transfer has been overtaken by other composite flaps. This is due to donor site morbidity and the poor volume of bone yielded. The advantages and potential complications of composite radial flaps are well described. Use of the composite radial forearm free flap has been largely superseded in mandible reconstruction, but applications such as a salvage option still exist. Additionally it may be used in the reconstruction of midface defects. The use of a cutting guide to reduce the donor site complications and yet produce a maximal yield of bone is described herein. With the use of a skilled maxillofacial laboratory, the planning allows precise cuts and placement of the free flap and allows accurate prophylactic plating of the radius. A precise titanium cutting guide and custom distal radius plate are used. Details of three cases where these techniques have been implemented are described. The paper demonstrates the significant advantages of using laboratory-based technology to assist in performing composite radial free flaps. This paper reveals that composite radial free tissue transfer still has a place in the reconstruction of very selective defects of the head and neck. In particular, its use in reconstruction of Class 5 and 6 maxillary defects (Brown classification) is illustrated. Correct case selection and planning results in increased confidence to use this flap.     

Hemiforehead flap for reconstruction of composite facial defects

Composite defects overlap 2 or more facial units. It is difficult to reconstruct composite defects with adequate shape, color, and texture. Because it is non-hair bearing, is relatively thin, and has a color and texture similar to that of the rest of the face, the skin of the forehead possesses excellent characteristics for nasal reconstruction and repair of other facial areas. The authors developed an extended thin forehead flap (hemiforehead flap) that includes half of the total forehead skin and is based on supratrochlear vessels. In the patient reported here, a hemiforehead flap was used to reconstruct composite defects of the lower lid, cheek, nose, and upper lip. Acceptable aesthetic and functional results were achieved. This flap may serve as an alternative for reconstruction of composite facial defects.     

Reconstruction of maxillary defects with serratus anterior muscle and angle of the scapula

Large maxillary defects ideally require reconstruction with a free flap. Varied classifications have been reported to describe maxillary/orbital defects. We describe our experience of free flaps in large maxillary defects using composite tissue of serratus anterior muscle and the angle of the scapula. Eleven patients (6 men and 5 women, age range 42-69 years) were studied retrospectively and the outcome was recorded.We conclude that the composite flap is versatile enough to reconstruct maxillary defects of various sizes.     

Management of class IV skull burns using the bipedicled superficial temporal artery scalp flap

Calvarial burns are extremely rare and pose a difficult challenge for both the burn and reconstructive surgeon. Reconstruction of these injuries is dependent on the depth of invasion and the amount of tissue loss. Fourth-degree burns include damage to the calvarium and the underlying dura and or cerebrum. Historically, these wounds have been treated conservatively. Two cases of electrical fourth-degree calvarial burns with large soft tissue defects as well as loss of calvarium and dura with cerebral herniation are presented. Each patient presented to Shriners Burn Hospital in a delayed fashion with infected wounds necessitating immediate intervention. Both patients were debrided and covered with a bipedicled superficial temporal artery scalp flap. The donor sites of each flap, as well as the remaining areas, were skin grafted. This flap provides immediate vascularized coverage in wounds that were unable to be treated conservatively. In the face of sepsis and other severe injuries where more complicated flaps are risky, this flap provides a reasonable and reliable method of calvarial coverage.     

Reconstruction of perioral defects following resection for oral squamous cell carcinoma.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to review and describe techniques for the reconstruction of large, complex perioral defects after resection of oral squamous cell carcinoma with emphasis on cosmetic and functional outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A review of techniques and selected case presentations using different flap designs for the reconstruction of large perioral defects following resection of squamous cell carcinoma was performed. The Bernard and Karapandzic flaps were used for large lower lip defects. A Zisser flap technique was used to reconstruct a large commissure defect. RESULTS: All reconstructed patients had acceptable functional results and healed without complication. The large lower lip defects were easily closed with the Bernard and Karapandzic flaps. The commissure defect was reconstructed using the Zisser technique. While cosmesis was acceptable in all cases, the commissure was the most difficult region to reconstruct with a favorable appearance. There were no flap failures. The Karapandzic flap led to greater rounding of the commissure area and the composite resection resulted in a lack of lower lip support that was improved with prosthesis. Function was noted to be excellent in the Bernard and Karapandzic flaps, with the patients able to purse lips and blow up balloon-type devices. CONCLUSION: The Bernard, Karapandzic, and Zisser flaps provide a predictable method to reconstruct large perioral defects following resection for oral cancer. Subsequent fabrication of a prosthesis can aid in lip support for the resected area.     

Free and locoregional flap associations in the reconstruction of extensive head and neck defects

Head and neck surgical defects after oncological resection of advanced carcinoma involving the oral cavity are often composite and involve bone, mucosa, soft tissues and skin. For the most extensive defects, the simultaneous association of two free flaps is the best choice to improve the function of the preserved structures. This procedure is difficult and involves prolonged surgery, therefore it is only possible in selected patients. In some composite head and neck defects the association of free and locoregional flaps seems to be indicated. This study, discusses the use of free and locoregional flap association, focusing on its aesthetic advantages and functional results. From January 1995 to December 2006, 30 patients received simultaneous locoregional and free flap transfer for closure of post-ablative oral cavity defects. Microvascular tissue transfer included the radial forearm, anterolateral thigh, rectus abdominis, and fibula and iliac crest free flaps. Locoregional flaps included the cervicofacial, cervicopectoral, deltopectoral, pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi and posterior scalp flaps. Based on the good functional and aesthetic outcome and low rate of complications, the association of free and locoregional flaps represents a good reconstructive option for patients with extensive post-oncological composite head and neck defects.     

Bimaxillary reconstruction with a single free fibular osteoseptocutaneous flap

Flap combinations including free fibula have been commonly used to reconstruct composite maxillomandibular defects. On the other hand, a single free osteoseptocutaneous may be rarely used to reconstruct the bimaxilla. In this article, we report a bimaxillary reconstruction in a 63-year-old man with a single fibular osteoseptocutaneous free flap.     

Vertical mandibular bone augmentation by the osteodistraction of the transplanted fibula free flap: A case series with long-term follow-up

Vertical augmentation of the mandible to prepare dental implant therapy is still a challenge, especially with large mandible defects. Reconstruction with fibula free flap is a regularly applied approach in such cases, but it does not always yield optimal results: the resulting crestal height might differ significantly from the crestal height of the patient's intact bone, which makes esthetic and functional rehabilitation difficult. Osteodistraction of the integrated flap is a known but rarely discussed approach where the already integrated flap undergoes additional distraction. Through the four cases reported here, we would like to demonstrate that the osteodistraction of the transplanted fibula free flap is a useful and efficient method of secondary augmentation for cases where the flap itself fails to produce the desired crestal height, and no other method is applicable. The cases show that the method allows outcomes that are highly satisfactory, both in the functional and esthetic sense.     

Additional distraction osteogenesis after conventional fronto-orbital advancement

In the conventional fronto-orbital advancement method, there is a limit to advancement because of scalp skin tension and an absence of a supraorbital bar fixating point. In a case of insufficient advancement after the primary operation, a secondary re-advancement must be performed. In such a condition, additional fronto-orbital advancement by distraction osteogenesis has proved to be very useful. The authors used additional distraction osteogenesis in three infant cases: two of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis and one of Apert's syndrome. They were able to perform these operations safely using their original internal devices. Distraction was started 3 days after the operation. The rate of advancement was 0.5 to 1.0 mm per day. The distraction distances ranged from 16 to 22 mm. They were able to gain enough advancement in all three cases. A reoperation of a fronto-orbital advancement is more difficult than the primary operation because of possible infection, much loss of blood, low blood supply to advanced bones, a tendency of advanced bones to relapse, increased scalp skin tension, and the existence of bone defects. In these poor conditions, distraction osteogenesis has many advantages: good vascularization, no relapsing, a low infection rate, and no need for bony fixating points in the bone defects. Although it is necessary to have a secondary operation to remove the devices and prolonged hospitalization is required, the disadvantages are far outweighed by the many advantages when performing additional fronto-orbital advancement.     

肋骨-胸大肌复合瓣修复口腔颌面部大范围复合缺损

目的：探讨肋骨-胸大肌复合瓣在修复口腔颌面部大范围复合性缺损中的可靠性及临床效果。方法：6例口腔颌面部大范围复合缺损患者采用肋骨-胸大肌复合瓣进行修复重建。皮瓣包括胸大肌肌皮瓣和第五肋骨,并在第五肋骨膜与胸膜壁层之间分离。根据软组织及下颌骨缺损的范围设计皮瓣,皮瓣大小为5 cm×8 cm-10 cm×18 cm,肋骨长度为7-10 cm。修复穿通性缺损时,将胸大肌皮瓣制成双叶瓣。结果：6例肋骨-胸大肌复合瓣全部成活,仅1例出现边缘少量坏死。手术后复查胸片,未出现气胸,仅1例出现胸腔少量积液。术后下颌骨形态和功能良好,口腔全景片显示骨瓣愈合良好。结论：肋骨-胸大肌复合瓣制备简单,安全可靠,适合修复口腔颌面部大范围、复合缺损。     

Combined latissimus dorsi-serratus anterior/rib composite free flap in mandibular reconstruction.

The serratus anterior/rib composite flap can be used alone or in combination with a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap in mandibular reconstruction. The combined flap is particularly useful in reconstructing large anterior mandibular defects, and 4 cases are described which illustrate its use both as a pedicled flap and as a free tissue transfer.     

降下唇肌瓣与髂骨移植联合修复进展期口底癌术后缺损

目的:探讨应用降下唇肌瓣与髂骨移植联合修复进展期口底癌术后缺损的方法和效果。方法 :在2011-08—2013-05,对于5例进展期口底癌患者行肿瘤扩大切除术,遗留的口底和下颌骨缺损采用降下唇肌瓣与髂骨移植联合修复。通过观察组织瓣成活、舌活动度和面部外形等情况,评价其修复效果。结果:随访2¹8个月,组织瓣全部成活,舌活动度良好,面部外形良好,活动义齿修复下颌缺牙,咀嚼功能恢复良好。结论:降下唇肌瓣和髂骨移植,制备方法简便,均不需要吻合血管,两者联合应用是修复进展期口底癌术后缺损的理想方法。     

The in vitro evaluation of a local pedicled osteomyocutaneous mandibular flap for the reconstruction of composite mandibular defects.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to develop and assess the potential feasibility of reconstructing composite defects of the mandible with a local pedicled osteomyocutaneous mandibular flap. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The flap design was established based on anatomic principles. A prospective evaluation of the flap was then performed in a fresh cadaver model, and, subsequently, its vascular integrity was documented with angiography. RESULTS: The pedicled osteomyocutaneous mandibular flap was technically simple to raise and had an exceptionally long arc of rotation, which should enable it to fill most compound segmental defects of the mandible. Angiographic studies of the harvested flaps done under fluoroscopic guidance confirmed that excellent vascularity of all components of the flap was present. CONCLUSIONS: The pedicled osteomyocutaneous mandibular flap appears to have a sound anatomic basis. Clinical evaluation is needed to fully elucidate its potential role in head and neck reconstruction.     

Reconstructing wide palatomaxillary defects using free flaps combining bare serratus anterior muscle fascia and scapular bone.

PURPOSE: Wide palatomaxillary defects, mostly after tumor resections, can cause severe functional and esthetic problems. Although prosthetic obturator devices or local flaps are mostly adequate for uncomplicated small-size defects, free flaps are preferred for a 3-dimensional multitissue reconstruction of more complicated defects. Regarding the anatomical structure of the palatomaxillary region, the flap must be thin enough to separate the oral and nasal cavities while not compromising palatal function, yet rigid enough for adequate dental restoration. This goal is usually accomplished with a combined or complex free flap. Numerous free flaps containing both soft tissues and bone have been described in the literature. In this study, we present a novel use of the free scapular bone flap combined with serratus anterior fascia and its functional and esthetic results. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Nine cases are presented whose wide composite palatomaxillary defects were repaired with free angular scapular bone flap combined with serratus anterior fascia based on the subscapular vascular system, between 1999 and 2003. Scapular bone wrapped with the naked serratus anterior fascia, like a sandwich, was used to repair the palate. RESULTS: The naked fascia was epithelialized with the help of the surrounding mucosa in 4 to 6 weeks. Results were satisfying with regard to breathing, eating, speech, and facial contour after follow-ups for 2 months to 6 years. CONCLUSION: For the reconstruction of wide palatomaxillary defects, a combined flap of angular scapular bone wrapped with naked serratus anterior fascia was conceived useful for obtaining satisfactory functional and esthetic results.     

Repair of composite zygomatico-maxillary defects with free bone grafts and free vascularized tissue transfer

INTRODUCTION: Three-dimensional repair of the zygomatico-maxillary defect calls for an elaborate technique to achieve facial symmetry and correct globe position. We present a technique, which combines the use of a free vascularized soft tissue flap and free bone grafts for repair of composite zygomatico-maxillary defects. PATIENTS: Three patients that underwent radical resection of the maxilla and the zygoma have undergone facial reconstruction using this technique. The mean follow up was 9 months. METHODS: The key points of this technique are: (1) precise reconstruction of the zygomatico-maxillary complex including the orbit; (2) creation of a skeletal framework for canthopexy and suspension of the free flap; (3) repair of through-and-through soft tissue defects with a folded musculocutaneous free flap; and (4) simultaneous harvesting and reconstruction using two surgical teams to reduce the duration of surgery. RESULTS: Reconstruction of the zygomatico-maxillary complex could be successfully accomplished in a single surgical procedure. CONCLUSION: This paper presents a method of repairing zygomatico-maxillary defects with free bone grafts and vascularized soft tissue. However, this concept has yet to be reviewed in the long term.     

联合应用游离腓骨瓣和前臂皮瓣修复口腔下颌骨复合缺损

目的 :分析联合应用游离腓骨瓣和前臂皮瓣在口腔下颌骨复合缺损修复中的应用价值。方法 :对2 0 0 0 0 3～ 2 0 0 2 0 1期间完成的 2 3例联合应用游离腓骨瓣和前臂瓣行口腔下颌骨缺损修复的病例作回顾性研究 ,分析缺损的类型、受区血管、游离瓣成活情况及术后并发症的发生情况 ,并分析有可能影响游离瓣成活的各种因素。结果 :2 3例患者中男性 17例 ,女性 6例 ,年龄 3 1～ 72岁 ,平均 5 2 .9岁 ,所采用的游离腓骨复合瓣中 ,腓骨长度 6～ 15cm(平均 10 .6cm) ,皮岛最大面积 12cm× 5cm ,最小 5cm× 3cm(平均 8.4cm×3 .6cm) ,腓骨的截骨次数为 0～ 3次 (平均 1.7次 ) ,所采用前臂皮瓣最大面积 10cm× 8cm ,最小 6cm× 5cm ,平均 7.8cm× 6.4cm。 2 3例患者的 46块游离瓣全部获得成活 ,受区和供区总的并发症发生率为3 0 .4% ,但并发症均不严重 ,没有造成严重的后果。结论 :游离腓骨瓣和前臂皮瓣联合应用在大型口腔下颌骨复合缺损的修复中具有较大的灵活性 ,安全可靠 ,并能较好地恢复患者的外形和功能 ,提高了患者的生存质量     

Coronally positioned flap with subepithelial connective tissue graft for root coverage: various indications and flap designs

Aesthetic concerns and functional abnormalities, such as dentin hypersensitivity, are often associated with gingival recession defects. Root coverage procedures aim to restore both gingival aesthetics and function in recession defects. The coronally positioned flap combined with the subepithelial connective tissue graft is one of the most widely used root coverage procedures. The present report illustrates four different indications where this procedure has been successfully employed. An isolated Miller class II recession defect associated with frenum pull, multiple adjacent Miller class I defects in the aesthetic zone, an isolated Miller class I defect associated with dentin hypersensitivity, and an isolated Miller class II defect on a retained deciduous tooth are the four diverse conditions treated by periodontal plastic surgery. Different approaches were used to create the coronally positioned flap. Treatment resulted in complete root coverage, resolution of hypersensitivity, and satisfaction of the patients' aesthetic concerns. An effective and predictable treatment modality, such as the coronally positioned flap combined with the subepithelial connective tissue graft, should be considered when treatment planning for gingival recession defects.     

The plastysma myocutaneous flap

Reconstructing extirpative defects of the oral cavity or face frequently presents a significant challenge to the surgeon. This article discusses two versions of the platysma myocutaneous flap that have proved to be reliable and versatile methods for reconstructing defects of the oral cavity, lower face, and ear. The advantages of these regional axial pattern flaps include good color match, appropriate thickness, minimal donor site morbidity, easy harvesting, and an adjacent donor site in the same operative field. A thorough understanding of the pertinent anatomy, particularly with respect to the location where the vascular supply enters the flap pedicle, is critical to the success of this flap.     

Superiorly based facial artery musculomucosal flap for large anterior palatal fistulae in clefts.

OBJECTIVE: An anterior hard palate fistula for which more than one attempt at repair using local tissue has failed is a difficult complication in cleft surgery. Prior to alveolar bone grafting, cleft patients have an open anterior maxillary arch that allows passage of a pedicled flap from cheek to hard palate. The superiorly based facial artery musculomucosal flap passed through the clefted alveolus is one of the newer techniques to solve this difficult problem. The aim of this study was to assess the validity of using a facial artery musculomucosal flap with an anterosuperiorly based pedicle with retrograde blood flow to repair a large anterior hard palate fistula when a lack of adequate local soft tissue precludes a local flap closure and the patient otherwise would need a tongue flap. RESULTS: Of 16 facial artery musculomucosal flaps in 14 children, 12 were successful, 2 suffered partial flap loss secondary to venous congestion, and 2 had complete flap failure. One had a small wound dehiscence that resulted in a small posterior fistula. CONCLUSION: An anterosuperiorly based facial artery musculomucosal flap is a viable option to close large anterior hard palate defects. Care needs to be taken to ensure adequate venous drainage. This flap obviates the need for a staged tongue flap repair for those patients with an open maxillary arch.