Biomechanical Properties of Scalp Flaps and Their Correlations to Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Procedures
May 1998
in “
Skin Research and Technology
”
TLDR Scalp flaps are stiffer than skin from other body areas, which helps in planning reconstructive and cosmetic head surgeries.
The study investigated the biomechanical properties of scalp flaps from 20 samples taken from 10 healthy male patients aged 25 to 41, who were undergoing scalp reduction surgery for male pattern baldness. The biomechanical testing revealed a three-phase stress response to loading, with a calculated Young's modulus of 117.1 g/mm for the scalp. These results indicate that the scalp's mechanical properties are significantly stiffer than those of skin from other body areas, likely due to the galea aponeurotica. The findings are intended to assist in pre-operative planning for reconstructive and aesthetic surgery by improving understanding of scalp stress distribution and aiding in the development of a mathematical model to predict surgical outcomes.
