The Extended Trapezius Musculocutaneous Flap for Cranio-Orbital Facial Reconstruction

Abstract

The use of the extended posterior trapezius muscle skin flap for cranio-orbital facial reconstruction is presented. Its enormous arc of rotation allows it to reliably reconstruct massive defects of the upper face with the orbit at the center of the defect; i.e., this flap will reach well beyond the supraorbital rim and across the midline. Its application for the immediate reconstruction of massive deformities following resection of tumors of the orbit and cranial base appears justified and helps avoid the major morbidity normally associated with such resections.