Island scapular flap based on transverse branch of circumflex scapular artery for axillary burn scar contracture

VernacularTitle:旋肩胛血管横支岛状皮瓣修复严重腋窝瘢痕挛缩畸形
Author: Minghuo XU ; Jiake CHAI ; Minliang CHEN ; Quanwen GAO
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Axillary fossa; Burn scar contracture; Island scapular flap; Transverse branch of circumflex scapular artery
From: Chinese Journal of Medical Aesthetics and Cosmetology 2010;16(5):301-303
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract: Objective Island scapular flap (ISF) based on transverse branch of circumflex scapular artery is less reported than ISF based on ascending or descending branch. This article presented authors' experiences in correction of severe axillary burn scar contracture with ISF based transverse branch of circumflex scapular artery. Methods ISFs based transverse branch was harvested in 12 patients with 15 severe axillary burn scar contracture, rotating an arc of about 180°. Flap size was between 12 cm× 5cm to 20 cm × 10 cm. The donor site was closed primarily. Results All 15 flaps survived completely and axillary burn scar contracture was corrected successfully. 8 patients were satisfied with both the functional and aesthetic results after 1-3 years' follow-up. Conclusion ISF based transverse branch of circumflex scapular artery is a good choice for reconstruction of severe axillary burn scar contracture, especially for female patients or ones whose ISF based on ascending or descending branch could not be harvested because of formation of hypertrophic scar in donor site.