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RESEARCH PRODUCT

The role of the vastus lateralis flap in head and neck reconstruction

Francesca ToiaSebastiano OieniSalvatore D'arpaLuigi MontesanoMatteo RossiAdriana Cordova

subject

“vastus lateralis” “head and neck”

description

The Vastus lateralis flap is a very versatile flap, easy to harvest and with a long pedicle. It can be harvested as a muscle, musculo-cutaneous or chimeric flap. It is particularly suit-able for head and neck reconstruction, as it allows for a two-team approach and can be tailored to the complex three-dimensional structure of this district. In this paper, we discuss our experience and a review of the literature on the use of the free Vastus lateralis flap in the head and neck region, analyzing its indications, advan-tages and limitations. We also provide technical tips to minimize donor site morbidity.

10.3269/1970-5492.2014.9.13http://hdl.handle.net/10447/149253