OBJECTIVETo observe the result of repairing deformity due to cicatricial contracture in face and neck regions with expanded skin flap.

METHODSEighty-three skin expanders with volume ranging from 100 to 600 mL were implanted into 38 patients with scars in face and neck regions after burn. The expansion time ranged from 3 to 5 months. Most expanders were implanted under normal skin. Ten expanders were implanted under stable integrated scars after healing of burn, and flaps therefrom were transplanted; 3 expanders were implanted into deep fascia layer of trapezius, and remote expanded skin flaps with deep branch of transverse cervical artery as the pedicle were formed and transplanted.

RESULTSAll flaps survived in 38 cases with satisfactory results. Complications including hematoma and infection after surgery occurred in 8 cases, but they did not affect therapeutic effect after treatment. Thirty patients were followed up for 3 to 24 months. It was found that the color and texture of skin flaps were good; appearance and function were obviously improved.

CONCLUSIONSExpanded skin flap is the best flap for repairing cicatricial deformity in face and neck regions after burn. Expanded cicatricial skin and expanded skin of remote region are good choices when normal skin is not available nearby.