KEYSTONE ISLAND FLAP: AN ALTERNATIVE RECONSTRUCTIVE OPTION TO FREE FLAPS IN IRRADIATED TISSUE

Abstract

There is a low complication rate using Keystone flaps (this double VY is a clinical development from Diffenbach's original work of 1848(1)) and this technique is particularly useful in achieving wound healing especially after irradiation treatment. This surgical technique once mastered is easy to perform. Another bonus is that there is minimal use of postoperative analgesia. Additional XRT is well tolerated by the patients with minimal evidence of wound complications, while achieving an acceptable aesthetic appearance.