Superficial temporal vessels, both anterograde and retrograde limbs, are viable recipient vessels for recurrent head and neck reconstruction in patients with frozen neck.

BACKGROUND

Reconstruction of recurrent head and neck malignancy especially in the presence of a frozen neck is challenging. The superficial temporal vessels would be ideal as recipient vessels because they lie out of the previous surgical and radiation field.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective case-control study based on our database between January 2013 and June 2016. A total of 581 primary cases were selected as controls. The 60 test group patients had (a) recurrent head and neck reconstruction, (b) previous surgery and irradiation, (c) frozen neck, and (d) superficial temporal vessels as recipients.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between vascular compromise rates of superficial temporal vessels (anterograde and retrograde limbs) and controls (P > .05). Flap success rate of the test and control group is comparable, 95% vs 98% respectively.

CONCLUSION

Superficial temporal vessels, both anterograde and retrograde, should be the first consideration for recurrent intraoral, facial, and scalp reconstruction with frozen necks.