Scalp Reconstruction and Cranioplasty using the Latissimus Dorsi Musculocutaneous Flap in a Patient with Recurrent Wound Dehiscence Accompanied by MRSA Infection

Abstract

The latissimus dorsi flap has high vascularity and is helpful for the reconstruction of infected areas. Herein, we present a patient with recurrent infections and soft-tissue defects who underwent cranial reconstruction using a free latissimus dorsi flap. The patient had undergone craniectomy and reconstruction using alloplastic bone 18 years previously. A scalp defect accompanied by infection occurred five years ago, and patient underwent reconstruction using a free flap at another hospital; however, the problem persisted. After debridement and bone flap removal, the right latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap was elevated, and the thoracodorsal artery and vein were anastomosed end-to-end to the right superficial temporal artery and vein. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was eradicated, and the flap survived. Cranioplasty was performed eight months later, and one year follow-up proceeded without complications. Effective reconstruction and cranioplasty are possible using the free latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap, even on scalp with persistent infections and soft-tissue defects.

Multidisciplinary approach for a severe head burn caused by high-voltage electrical shock - a case report

“…6 Establishing a good vascularization of the transplanted skin was an important part of the operation due to the high chance of local infection, which could lead to the necessity for reoperation. The occurrence of infection after cranioplasty is reported on average at about 8% of surgeries 7 , but in this case, this complication was avoided.…”