Temporal Africa Scalp flap - a novel flap for facial reconstruction

Abstract

Introduction: The novel Temporal Africa Scalp Flap (TAS Flap) is based on the superficial temporal artery as an axial flap in the proximal half of the flap, with retrograde blood flow in the distal half. It was designed and developed for lower third nasal and lip reconstruction. This technique is particularly useful in situations when a forehead scar is not desirable or where normal forehead skin is not available. Methods and Materials: On board our two hospital ships, the Africa and Global Mercy in Madagascar, Cameroon, and Senegal, over 40 patients with complete or partial full-thickness loss of the lower third of the nose, columella, and full-thickness defects of the upper or lower lip underwent TAS flap reconstruction. Result(s): There was no flap loss, and full flap take was noted. The causes of facial skin defects were predominantly burn injuries, followed by cancrum oris (noma). Patients showed good colour and texture match. Complications included neuropraxia of the frontal branch of the facial nerve and venous congestion of the flap, which required the release of some sutures for a few days. Conclusion(s): The TAS flap is a safe, reliable, and useful alternative to the standard forehead flap for facial reconstruction, especially for the lower third of the nose and upper and lower lips.Copyright © 2025