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Semin Plast Surg 2010; 24(2): 148-154
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1255332
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Principles of Head and Neck Reconstruction: An Algorithm to Guide Flap Selection

Harvey Chim1 , Christopher J. Salgado2 , Rimante Seselgyte3 , Fu-Chan Wei4 , Samir Mardini3
  • 1Department of Plastic Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
  • 2Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
  • 3Division of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
  • 4Department of Plastic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
21 June 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Advances in head and neck reconstruction have resulted in improved outcomes with single-stage repair of defects ranging from intraoral to pharyngoesophageal to skull base defects. Key to success of surgery is choosing an appropriate reconstructive option based on the patient's wishes and fitness for major surgery. Where possible, free tissue transfer provides the best functional and aesthetic outcomes for the vast majority of defects. In this article, we present an algorithm to guide choice of flap selection and review principles of reconstruction and secondary surgery for head and neck defects.

KEYWORDS

Flap selection - free tissue transfer - integrity-function-form - reverse reconstructive ladder

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Samir MardiniM.D. 

Division of Plastic Surgery

Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905

Email: mardinis@aol.com

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