Islanded supraclavicular artery flap: A versatile flap for oral reconstruction

Abstract

Background: Supraclavicular fl ap is an excellent fasciocutaneous fl ap for head and neck reconstruction due to its close color and texture match. The aim of this study is to present supraclavicular artery island fl ap as an alternative choice in patients who need a free fl ap like radial forearm or ALT fl ap for reconstruction of oral mucosal defects, but are not fi t for such microsurgical procedures. Material and methods:This study was carried out in the Plastic Surgery Department of GMC Srinagar. It involved 12 patients, in whom supraclavicular artery island fl ap was done to reconstruct oral lining defects from January 2018 to December 2020. Results:The study involved 12 patients (9 males and 3 females). Mean age was 26.5 years (range 12-57 years). The cause of oral mucosal defect was post tumour resection in eight, fi re arm injury in three, and corrosive injury in one patient. The following complications occurred: partial distal necrosis in 1 case, and donor site graft loss in 1case. All complications were managed conservatively. Conclusion:This fl ap is thin, malleable, and is easily and rapidly harvested with minimal donor site morbidity. It can be used for single stage reconstruction of many types of head and neck defects.