The design and clinical applications of the scalp O-Z flap

Objective To investigate the effect of O-Z flap for the reconstruction of round-or elliptical-shaped defects following the scalp tumor removal. Methods The resection of the scalp tumor resulted in a round or elliptical-shaped defect. Intraoperative frozen section identified pathological diagnosis, while also ensured margin being tumor-free. Based on the size and location of the defect, the mobility of the surrounding scalp and hair distribution, two local flaps were designed in opposite directions on each side of the defect. The two flaps were rotated to close the defect in an O-Z fashion. Results From April 2016 to November 2017, 6 patients underwent defect reconstruction using the scalp O-Z flap. The etiologies included basal cell carcinoma (n=2), squamous cell carcinoma (n=2), and trichilemoma and epidermoid cyst (n=2). The defect size ranged from 3.0cm×3.5cm to 5.0cm×6.0cm. Necrosis on the distal of the flap had occurred in 1 patient. It was taken approximately 6% of the flap size, and healed after conservative management. Other flaps survived without any complications. After 3 to 12 months follow-up, the appearance of the sclap was satisfactory and tumor recurrence was not noticed. Conclusions The O-Z flap technique can be considered as an alternative for the medium-sized defect reconstruction of the scalp. The postoperative outcome of scalp was satisfactory, without disrupted hair orientation. Key words: Defect; Skin flap; Scalp tumor