Single-person Harvest of Anterolateral Thigh Flap Using Scalp Hooks

Abstract

This study describes the benefits of using neurosurgical scalp hooks in harvesting an anterolateral thigh flap. Typically, scalp hooks retracting the surgical field are connected to cloth forceps with rubber bands, extending the surgical field to flat. A surgeon can use scalp hooks to retract multiple arbitrary points in any direction by retracting them with their fingers. Thus, the expanded operative field is much flatter than that retracted with fingers. As the dissection progresses, the hooks can be adjusted to maintain flatness. This technique allows easy, single-person harvesting of various musculocutaneous or perforator flaps. Furthermore, assistant surgeons can concentrate on cooperating safely in the flat surgical field. Potential limitations include needlestick injury, compression of vascular pedicles with rubber bands, and clamping skin with cloth forceps.