Reconstruction of Hemifacial Congenital Giant Nevus with Pre-expanded Scalp Flaps and Deltopectoral Skin Flaps

Abstract

Background: The hemifacial congenital giant nevus impacts both physical and mental health of the patients. Excision is typically the most suitable option in these situations, but reconstructing the subsequent surgical defects is always a serious challenge.

Methods: Between February 2012 and January 2021, a retrospective review of 4 patients who suffered from hemifacial congenital giant nevus was conducted, and they were treated by pre-expanded scalp flap and deltopectoral flap simultaneously. All patients receive tissue expansion, nevus resection, expanded skin flap transfer, and pedicle division.

Results: Four patients with hemifacial congenital giant nevi were successfully treated with no major complications. One patient with a transferred deltopectoral flap experienced distal necrosis of the flap, and healed after dressing changes. No recurrence of the nevus was found during the follow-up period, and the transferred skin flaps match well with facial skin in contour and color.

Conclusion: This modified pre-expanded scalp flap combined with a deltopectoral flap provides an easy and reliable way for hemifacial reconstruction in patients with a congenital giant nevus.