Microsurgical Scalp Reconstruction in the Elderly

2015

BACKGROUND Microvascular reconstruction is the mainstay of treatment in complex scalp defects. The rate of elderly patients requiring scalp reconstruction is increasing, but outcomes in elderly patients are unclear. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature pertaining to free tissue transfer for scalp reconstruction in patients older than 65 years to compare outcomes among different free flaps and determine the safety profile of treatment. METHODS A systematic review of the available literature of patients undergoing microvascular scalp reconstruction was completed. Details for patients 65 years and older were extracted and reviewed for data analysis. RESULTS A t…