Trapezius Myocutaneous Flap Reconstruction for the Head and Neck

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-29-2025

Publication Title

The Journal of craniofacial surgery

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The trapezius myocutaneous flap is a valuable option for reconstructing defects in the head and neck region requiring a sizeable skin paddle. This study assessed surgical outcomes of the trapezius myocutaneous flap in head and neck reconstruction, specifically focusing on defects of the lateral temporal bone, lateral neck, and scalp or posterior midline neck.

METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed patients grouped by site of defect within the head and neck. Subgroup analysis was performed.

RESULTS: Overall rates of complication for the lateral temporal bone and lateral neck were 14.5% and 21.1%, respectively. The odds of complications in the scalp and midline posterior neck site were significantly higher (2.94 times higher) than in patients with a temporal bone defect site (odds ratio=2.94, P=0.027).

CONCLUSIONS: The trapezius flap is useful when reconstructing the lateral temporal bone and lateral neck defects, likely due to a more favorable arc of rotation.

PubMed ID

40299788

ePublication

ePub ahead of print

Share

COinS