Salvage of Post-Cranioplasty Implant Exposure Using Free Tissue Transfer

The study, conducted over a 12-year period from January 2004 to February 2016, involved 11 patients who had unsuccessful locoregional flap surgeries to cover exposed implants after cranioplasty. Various types of free flaps were used, including anterolateral thigh flap, radial forearm flap, and others. The results showed a 100% flap survival rate and a 91% success rate in salvaging the implants without removal. The authors concluded that free tissue transfer is a highly effective method for reconstructing exposed implants following cranioplasty, particularly in cases where chronic exposure has lasted over 3 months.