Interest of Thin Skin Flaps in the Treatment of Postburn Cervical Contractures: About Five Cases

Abstract

Objectives. The use of thin skin flaps in the reconstruction of postburn cervical contractures associated with functional impacts. Material and Methods. We conducted a descriptive observational study on about five patients who had reconstruction of postburn cervical contractures using various thin skin flaps in a plastic surgery department. The follow-up period was ranged from 12 to 18 months. We determined the characteristics of the retraction according to the Vandenbussche classification, the indications of the flaps, and the functional and aesthetic results. Results. Most of our patients were young adults presenting segmental retraction of the neck associated with moderate functional impact. The occipito-cervico-dorsal flap was used in three cases. The occipito-cervico-shoulder flap was used in two cases. The aesthetic and functional results were satisfactory for all patients, but a “neck-collar” aspect of the cervical-chin angle was noticed. Conclusion. Postburn cervical contractures remain frequent. Their reconstruction is a difficult process as it is ideally done with a skin similar to the original one. The use of thin skin flaps seems to be an excellent option.

Occipito-Cervico-Dorsal Flap for Neck Reconstruction After Postburn Contractures: A Case Report and Literature Review

“…The resulting defect was 21 cm long and 12 cm wide (Figure 2). Because of the size and depth of the defect, we decided to design and harvest an occipito-cervico-dorsal flap with a 26 × 12-cm skin paddle based on a perforator of the transverse cervical artery that we had previously identified using a Doppler ultrasound device (Ghorbel et al, 2019; Figure 3).…”

Postburn Reconstruction of the Face and Neck

“…Although local flaps are good to perform, they are helpful only after release of mild contractures. 24 Contractures occur because of loss of skin, and losses need to be compensated.…”

“…Flaps provide better aesthesis with pliable and supple skin. 24,29,30 If the flaps cannot cover the entire defect, they are used to cover the anterior visible portion of the neck, and the rest of the areas are covered with graft. When grafts are used alone, they are laid transversely and 1330e Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery • December 2022 quilted to contour the shape of the neck (Fig.…”