Application of Superficial Temporal Artery Flap in Wound Repairing After the Resection of Craniofacial Malignant Tumors

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Craniofacial malignant tumors require not only extended resection but also appropriate reconstruction to restore appearance, which remains a major challenge. Here the authors introduced the application of superficial temporal artery (STA) flap in wound repairing after the resection of craniofacial malignant tumors. METHODS: From January 2015 to December 2018, 16 patients with craniofacial malignant tumors were enrolled into the study, including squamous cell carcinoma (n = 6), basal cell carcinoma (n = 3), melanoma (n = 4), neuroendocrine carcinoma (n = 2), and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberance (n = 1). All of the tumors underwent extended resection. The defects formed were repaired by flaps pedicled with superior or frontal branch of STA. Donor sites were repaired with skin grafts. Patients were followed up for 6 months to 3 years to monitor the recurrence of tumor. RESULTS: All the flaps survived well. Venous congestion occurred in two cases but resolved after blood-letting and application of drugs promoting venous draining. During the follow-up, no recurrence of tumors was observed and the appearance of flaps was satisfying. But flap donor sites suffered from relatively poor appearance or alopecia deformity. CONCLUSIONS: The STA flap is reliable for wound repairing after resection of craniofacial malignant tumors. The STA parietal branch flap is preferred for repairing scalp defects, while the STA frontal branch flap is preferred for repairing facial defects. However, the STA flap should be used prudently due to its disadvantage of the deformity in scalp donor sites.