Abstract

A longitudinal study of angular artery island flap, used for reconstruction of facial defects

Author(s): Arghya Bera*, Goutam Guha

Considering cosmetic and functional outcome, reconstruction of moderate to large mid & upper facial soft-tissue defects due to trauma, neoplasm, or infection remains a challenge. We used either ipsilateral or contralateral angular artery island flap in patients with full-thickness soft-tissue defects in those areas. We present our experience in 30 patients (17 females & 13 males) with mean age of 65 , with complex soft-tissue defects in mid & upper face reconstructed with angular artery island flaps. Defect sizes changed from 1 × 2 cm to3.5 × 5 cm. Flap size varied from a length of 2.2 to 6 cm average (average 4 cm) and width of 2.7 to 6.5 cm (average 5 cm). All donor sites were closed primarily. Twenty seven flaps (90%) healed without any necrosis and completely survived. Ipsilateral or contralateral angular artery island flap is a very convenient, safe and reliable flap for reconstruction of moderate to large mid and upper facial defects. Good aesthetic outcome for variety of facial defects could be obtained with this flap. Donor site morbidity also less.