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Revisiting the sternocleidomastoid flap as a reconstructive option in head and neck surgery

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 August 2019

L F Jones ,
E M Farrar ,
D J H Roberts  and
J W Moor
L F Jones*
Affiliation:
Division of Anatomy, Leeds Institute of Medical Education, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, UK
E M Farrar
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Pinderfields General Hospital, Mid Yorkshire NHS Hospitals Trust, Wakefield, UK
D J H Roberts
Affiliation:
Division of Anatomy, Leeds Institute of Medical Education, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, UK
J W Moor
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
*
Author for correspondence: Dr Larissa Jones, 109D Dartmouth Road, London NW2 4ES, UK E-mail: larissa.jones@nhs.net
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Abstract

Background

The sternocleidomastoid can be used as a pedicled flap in head and neck reconstruction. It has previously been associated with high complication rates, likely due in part to the variable nature of its blood supply.

Objective

To provide clinicians with an up-to-date review of clinical outcomes of sternocleidomastoid flap surgery in head and neck reconstruction, integrated with a review of vascular anatomical studies of the sternocleidomastoid.

Methods

A literature search of the Medline and Web of Science databases was conducted. Complications were analysed for each study. The trend in success rates was analysed by date of the study.

Results

Reported complication rates have improved over time. The preservation of two vascular pedicles rather than one may have contributed to improved outcomes.

Conclusion

The sternocleidomastoid flap is a versatile option for patients where prolonged free flap surgery is inappropriate. Modern vascular imaging techniques could optimise pre-operative planning.

Keywords

Reconstructive Surgical ProceduresNeck MusclesHumansPostoperative ComplicationsSurgerySurgical FlapsOtolaryngologic DiseasesMyocutaneous Flap
Type
Review Article
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 133 , Issue 9 , September 2019 , pp. 742 - 746
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited, 2019 

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Footnotes

Dr L Jones takes responsibility for the integrity of the content of the paper

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