Scalp reconstruction with free flaps using the external carotid artery and internal jugular vein as the recipient vessels without the need for interpositional vein grafts or arterio-venous loops

The technique of lengthening of the pedicles of the rectus abdominus and latissimus dorsi free flaps are described in five patients.

Lengthening of these pedicles allowed scalp reconstruction using the external carotid artery and internal jugular vein as the recipient vessels without the need for interpositional vein grafts or arterio-venous loops. Post-operative recovery was uneventful in all cases.