title: [Repeated tissue expansion for repairing extensive scalp and facial soft tissue defects: analysis of 18 cases].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To summarize our experiences with 18 cases of repeated tissue expansion for treating extensive scalp and facial soft tissue defects.
  
  
  METHODS
  Tissue expansion was performed for 1 or 2 times after the primary expansion for repairing large scalp and facial soft tissue defects ranging from 9 cm x 5 cm to 16 cm x 12 cm using re-expanded flaps. The indications, complications and experiences in the treatment were discussed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Satisfactory results were obtained in all the 18 cases. On the follow-up conducted 6 months postoperatively, the repaired defects presented excellent appearance and functional recovery without additional scars.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Repeated tissue expansion is an effective technique for repairing large tissue defects in the head and face.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China. luo_shengkang@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Sheng-Kang
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Luo
authors.forename: Jian-Hua
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Gao
authors.forename: Ping
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Jiang
authors.forename: Ling
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Yan
authors.forename: Zhi-Qi
authors.initials: ZQ
authors.lastname: Hu
authors.forename: Li-Xian
authors.initials: LX
authors.lastname: Zhang
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005151:Facial Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D012535:Scalp / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D017695:Soft Tissue Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D015626:Tissue Expansion / Q000379:methods*