Snail Flap for Scalp Reconstruction: Technique and Outcomes
January 2025
in “
Head & Neck
”
Studysummary In this report, researchers highlighted the snail flap as a highly reliable and minimally invasive reconstructive technique that preserves hair and requires minimal hospitalization, making it suitable for elderly or frail patients with moderate scalp defects. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
The study describes the surgical technique and outcomes of using the snail flap for scalp reconstruction. It retrospectively evaluated 44 patients with scalp defects ranging from 3 x 3 cm to 8 x 8 cm, with a median age of 74 years. The snail flap demonstrated a 100% survival rate, with complications including 20% wound infections, 27% minimal necrosis, and 5% hematoma, all managed outpatient. The technique is noted for its ease, reliability, and ability to preserve hair, making it suitable for elderly or frail patients with moderate-sized scalp defects, with minimal morbidity and hospitalization needs.
