Scapular Island Flap as a Workhorse Flap for Axillary Defect Reconstruction

Aim: Axillary defects mostly occur after burn contracture releases or hidradenitis suppurativa debridements. Reconstruction of this type of defect is a challenge since the ultimate aim is maintaining a pliable coverage with full mobility of the shoulder joint. Scapular flap is one of the reconstructive options in axillary defect coverage. This study is aiming to present reconstruction of axillary defects with scapular island flaps for different indications and to discuss the outcomes of the donor sites so as to suggest it as a workhorse flap in axillary reconstruction.
Patients and Methods: A total of 7 patients treated with 8 scapular island flaps between 2015 and 2019 were included retrospectively. Five patients were operated for hidradenitis suppurativa and 2 patients reconstructed for axillary contracture. All scapular flap pedicles were skeletonized and transferred to the axilla through the triangular space.
Results: Flap dimensions ranged from 84cm2 to 128 cm2 without exceeding 8cm of the width. Donor site scars widened between 3 months to 6 months post-operatively and independent of patient age. Donor site scars ranged from 1.5-2.6 cm after at least 3 months of follow-up. All flaps survived without any complication except one with a tip necrosis that healed with secondary intention.
Conclusion: Scapular island flaps can cover defects of the axilla created by various causes. Horizontal extension of the flap protects it from burn scar involvements of the posterior axillary line and the arm. Although widening of the scars seems to be a disadvantage, thin and pliable skin coverage with ease