Treatment of Romberg's Disease with Parascapular Free Flap and Polyethylene Porous Implants

ABSTRACT

Romberg's disease is a rare condition characterized by progressive hemifacial atrophy. The atrophic process typically has its onset in the first or second decade of life, it continues for a few years (usually 2, but up to 10), and then it stops spontaneously. The subcutaneous tissue is the first to be involved by the disease, followed by muscles, bones, and, rarely, the skin. The etiology of the disease is unknown. The only available treatment is surgical. Several techniques have been reported in the literature, from fat transplant, to silicon prostheses, to the use of flaps. We present our experience in successfully treating six patients (3 males and 3 females) affected by Romberg's hemifacial atrophy of intermediate or severe degree. A technique including a free parascapular microvascular flap with the adjunct of porous polyethylene implants was used. Further correction was performed with remodeling or resuspension.

KEY WORDS

Romberg's disease - polyethylene implants - parascapular flap