Scalp reconstruction with supragaleal flap: a great option for large scalp avulsion

ABSTRACT

The treatment of large scalp defects remains a big challenge, even though several therapeutic options are available. According to localization, size and depth of injury, and patient’s characteristics, the plastic surgeon may use techniques such as skin graft, tissue expanders, local or free flaps. Microsurgery has revolutionized reconstructive plastic surgery and is the gold standard for more complex cases. However, it is available only in large centers. Using the simplest technique is a broadly accepted concept that should be applied to scalp wounds as well. In this paper, we report a case of trauma of a 4 year-old child who lost approximate one third of the scalp including pericranium areas, that it is possible to reconstruct the scalp by rotating a supragaleal flap followed by a skin graft over the galea. This is an easily reproducible technique with a short learning curve, and therefore is an interesting option for large scalp injuries.

Keywords:
Surgical flaps; Reconstructive surgical procedures; Scalp