Superficial temporal axial pattern flap for facial reconstruction of skin defects in dogs and cats

Objectives: Report the use, complications and outcome of the superficial temporal axial pattern flap (STA) when used for closure of skin defects localised to the maxillofacial region in dogs and cats. Materials and Methods: Multi-centre retrospective cohort study. Medical records of dogs and cats treated with a STA flap for closure of skin defects were reviewed. Information regarding signalment, reason for axial pattern flap use, flap size, flap healing, postoperative complications including need for surgical revision and overall outcome were collected. Results: Nineteen patients were included: nine dogs and 10 cats. Indications for the STA flap included closure of defects following excision of tumours (18/19, 94.7%) and fungal granuloma resection (1/19, 5.2%). 100% flap survival occurred in 17 of 19 flaps (89.4%). Postoperative complications occurred in eight of 19 flaps (42.1%). A major complication of full thickness partial necrosis of the flap occurred in one of 19 cases (5.2%), where the flap length exceeded recommended guidelines. Minor complications related to the flap were seen in four of 19 cases (21%). This included partial thickness flap necrosis, flap oedema and wound discharge. Complications related to the location of surgery (5/19, 26.3%) included mild ectropion, mild exposure of the eye, reduced ability to blink and subcutaneous emphysema. Clinical Significance: The STA flap is a good option for closure of a skin defect localised to the maxillofacial region. STA flaps were associated with a high percentage of survival and a low incidence of major complications.