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J Reconstr Microsurg 2021; 37(02): 097-110
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1715644
Review Article

Anatomy, Exposure, and Preparation of Recipient Vessels in Microsurgical Head and Neck Reconstruction

Hope Xu
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
,
Leila Jazayeri
2   Department of Plastic Surgery, Kaiser Permanente, San Leandro Medical Center, San Leandro, California
,
Evan Matros
3   Plastic and Reconstructive Surgical Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
,
Peter W. Henderson
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
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Abstract

Successful microvascular reconstruction of head and neck defects requires the ability to safely identify, isolate, and utilize recipient vessels. To date, however, a comprehensive review of the anatomy and techniques relevant to the available anatomic regions has not been undertaken. This review covers the relevant clinical anatomy of the anterior triangle, posterior triangle, submandibular region, intraoral region, preauricular region, chest, and arm, taking particular care to highlight the structures that are crucial to identify while performing each dissection. Finally, a step-by-step technique for safely dissecting the recipient vessels at each site is provided.

Keywords

head and neck reconstruction - microsurgery - recipient vessels


Publication History

Received: 15 May 2020

Accepted: 15 July 2020

Article published online:
30 August 2020

© 2020. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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