title: Can we put a simplified algorithm for reconstruction of large scalp defects following tumor resection?
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Reconstruction of large scalp defects after tumor resection is a challenging problem. We aimed at putting an algorithm for reconstruction of those defects.
  
  
  METHODS
  Forty-two patients with scalp malignancies were enrolled in this study. Tumors were resected to a 1 cm negative margin and defects were reconstructed according to their size and to patient general condition.
  
  
  RESULTS
  No peri-operative mortality was encountered. Usage of free flaps was superior in cosmoses and function with an acceptable rate of complications.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  for scalp defects wider than 100 cm2, the best tool of reconstruction is free flaps. Pedicled distant flaps are reserved if free flaps are not feasible or failed. Split thickness skin grafts are cosmetically inferior and not suitable for recurrent and irradiated tumours and better reserved for patients who cannot tolerate major operations.
authors: Department of Surgical Oncology, Oncology Center - Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt. adeldenewer@mans.edu.eg
authors: Adel
authors: A
authors: Denewer
authors: Ashraf
authors: A
authors: Khater
authors: Omar
authors: O
authors: Farouk
authors: Mohammad
authors: M
authors: Hegazy
authors: Mahmoud
authors: M
authors: Mosbah
authors: Mohammad
authors: M
authors: Hafez
authors: Fayez
authors: F
authors: Shahatto
authors: Sameh
authors: S
authors: Roshdy
authors: Waleed
authors: W
authors: Elnahas
authors: Mohammad
authors: M
authors: Kasem
mesh_terms: D018266:Adenocarcinoma, Sebaceous / Q000601:surgery; D000368:Aged; D000465:Algorithms; D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000601:surgery; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008545:Melanoma / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D011379:Prognosis; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D012535:Scalp / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps