Scalp reconstruction after wide resection of an angiosarcoma

Abstract

Introduction: It is difficult to reconstruct the scalp due to its poor elasticity and presence of layers over a rigid convex structure. Different surgical techniques are used to repair defects that may develop due to several etiologies, such as trauma, deformities, and disease sequelae, especially cancer, as noted in the present case. Cutaneous angiosarcoma, a rare and extremely aggressive malignant vascular tumor that mainly develops in elderly individuals, is clinically characterized by the onset of rapidly evolving erythematous purple plaques. The treatment depends on disease extent. Most patients are treated with wide surgical resection and reconstruction. The objective is to report a case of reconstruction of a major scalp defect after an oncologic dissection performed at the Hospital Central do Exército in Rio de Janeiro. Methods: An autologous graft and dermal matrices were applied during two surgical periods till the damaged area was fully covered. Results: Satisfactory results were obtained after performing skin grafting surgery in the resected area. Conclusion: The autologous graft and dermal matrix proved to be a viable option for scalp reconstruction.

Keywords

• scalp
• reconstructive surgical procedures
• vascular tissue neoplasms
• cutaneous neoplasms
• rehabilitation