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Semin Plast Surg 2010; 24(2): 155-170
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1255333
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Anatomic Variations in Head and Neck Reconstruction

Bien-Keem Tan1 , Chin-Ho Wong1 , Hung-Chi Chen2
  • 1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
  • 2E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung County, Taiwan
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Publication History

Publication Date:
21 June 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Head and neck reconstruction is a technically challenging procedure. Variations encountered in the recipient vessels and commonly used flaps add to the complexity of surgery. This article reviews the commonly encountered variations in the recipient vessels in the neck with emphasis on alternatives and techniques to circumvent these variations. Flaps commonly used in head and neck reconstruction are also reviewed in detail. Furthermore, safety, potential pitfalls, and technical pearls are highlighted.

KEYWORDS

Recipient vessel - head and neck - reliability - anomaly - flap selection

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Bien-Keem TanM.B.B.S. F.R.C.S. 

Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital

Outram Road, Singapore 169608

Email: bienkeem@singnet.com.sg