Trapezius flaps for reconstruction of head and neck defects following oncological resection - A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE

Head and neck (H&N) reconstruction after cancer resection is challenging. Myocutaneous trapezius flaps provide an alternative reconstruction for patients not suitable for microvascular free tissue transfer.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed on studies involving trapezius flaps for H&N reconstruction post oncological resection between the years 1985-2015. Data extracted included patient numbers and demographics, operative technique and complications. Complication rates, for the study cohort, were calculated and a univariate analysis was preformed evaluating patient and flap-related risk factors.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 157 trapezius flaps. Intraoral defects were the most frequent recipient site (74.5%). The mean skin paddle width was 6.84 cm (range 3-15 cm) and length was 11.1 cm (range 4-25 cm). Type 2 (superficial branch of transverse cervical artery) accounted for 77.1% (118/153) of all trapezius flaps performed. The complication rate was 15.9%, with 15 reported flap related and 7 donor site complications. Skin paddle size, pedicle selection, primary versus salvage reconstruction and radiotherapy were not identified risk factors for complications.

CONCLUSION

Trapezius flaps are a reliable and versatile myocutaneous flap for both primary and salvage surgery reconstruction of H&N defects following oncological resection.