Modification of the superficial cervical axial pattern skin flap for oral reconstruction.
OBJECTIVE
To describe an extended pedicle flap based on the superficial cervical artery (SCA) for closure of oral defects in dogs.


METHODS
Anatomic study; in vivo experimental study.


METHODS
Canine cadavers (13) and 3 dogs.


METHODS
The prescapular branch of the SCA was cannulated and perfused with a lead oxide gelatin mixture. The area perfused by 1 SCA was examined as was the rostral extent of the flap. Staged implantation was performed to evaluate flap performance in vivo. In stage 1, the flap was prepared for implantation into the oral cavity. In stage 2, the flap was fully developed to include the 1 degrees, 2 degrees, and partial 3 degrees angiosome of 1 SCA pedicle. The flap was transposed by a bridging incision and a parapharyngeal tunnel into the oral cavity. The flap was used to reconstruct a partial-thickness defect created in the palate.


RESULTS
The territory of the contralateral SCA was captured in all cadavers. The full flap reached the level of the canine teeth in all cadavers. In live dogs, necrosis was not observed after implantation into partial-thickness defects and dehiscence was minimal. Loss of pliability secondary to de-epithelialization and staging resulted in a limitation of rostral reach of the flap.


CONCLUSIONS
Whereas the flaps did not reach as far rostrally as anticipated, they survived well in the harsh oral environment. The flap may be modified to reconstruct full-thickness palatal defects.


CONCLUSIONS
The extended SCA pattern flap may be adapted for closure of oral defects.
Dundas
James M
JM
Western College of Veterinary Medicine and Royal University Hospital, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. jadundas@sbcglobal.net
Fowler
J David
JD
Shmon
Cindy L
CL
Clapson
J Brian
JB
D000818:Animals; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D009333:Neck / Q000601:surgery; D011859:Radiography; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000662:veterinary*; D016896:Treatment Outcome