Superficial Temporal Artery Flap for Reconstruction of Complex Facial Defects: A New Algorithm

Between October 2010 and October 2014, a study involving 72 patients (24 females and 48 males) with an average age of 33.7 years was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of superficial temporal artery island flaps for facial reconstruction. The patients had various facial defects due to trauma, burns, tumors, exposed hardware, and congenital causes and were categorized into five groups: cavity resurfacing (10 cases), contracture release (13 cases), facial hair restoration (19 cases), skin coverage (17 cases), and combined defects (13 cases). The flaps were successfully used for reconstruction with minimal complications over a follow-up period of 24 to 54 months. The study concluded that these flaps are a reliable reconstructive option and provided a systematic algorithm for their application. The study also reported minimal complications, such as minor wound infection and patchy hair loss at the donor site, and in some cases, laser hair ablation was performed. The authors emphasized the versatility and reliability of the superficial temporal artery flap for facial reconstruction, with minimal donor site morbidity and occasional need for refinement.