CLINICAL-APPLICATIONS OF THE SUBGALEAL FASCIA

The anatomic boundaries and vascular supply of the subgaleal fascia have been described previously. The thin and malleable subgaleal fascia was selected for difficult reconstructive problems in seven patients. This flap has been based on either the supraorbital or the superficial temporal vascular leash. The subgaleal fascia is readily dissected from superficial galea and deep periosteum, leaving behind a well-vascularized scalp and a skin-graftable calvarium. The flap conforms to a cartilage framework for ear reconstruction. It takes a skin graft well. The subgaleal fascia can patch dural defects and fill sinus dead space. It has been used to augment facial contour. Free vascularized transfer of the subgaleal fascia has included the temporoparietal fascia, which was partially split from the subgaleal fascia for bilobed flap resurfacing of the hand. The subgaleal fascial flap should be considered when ultrathin, vascularized coverage is needed.