Bucket-Handle Bipedicled Scalp Flaps for Coverage of Cranial Constructs in Cranioplasty

Abstract

Composite frontal scalp defects involving the frontal bone and full thickness scalp can pose a reconstructive challenge. Often, they necessitate the use of microsurgical free tissue transfer, which can be physiologically demanding in high-risk patients with multiple comorbidities, with exposure to prolonged general anesthesia time and increased surgical morbidity. The experience of a single surgeon was reviewed with reconstruction of composite frontal scalp wounds in 4 patients with structural framework and a bipedicled scalp advancement (ie, "bucket handle") flap, thus obviating the need for free tissue transfer. All 4 patients demonstrated complete wound healing by final follow-up, without need for further reoperations or ulcer recurrence. In face of composite frontal scalp defects in less than ideal candidates for lengthy microsurgical flap procedures, the bucket-handle flap can provide a simple and reliable reconstructive option.