Double scalping flap: a versatile technique in scalp reconstruction

Scalp reconstruction is a challenging area in plastic surgery. The susceptibility of potentially exposed brain tissue is almost always a concern along with the provision of adequate soft tissue coverage in cases of full-thickness defects. The applied reconstructive strategy also affects efficiency in malignant disease treatment providing both local control of the disease and vigorous monitoring for recurrence or metastasis. The general condition of the patients presenting with malignant lesions of the scalp is often impaired because of old age or concomitant disease. Therefore, demanding, long-lasting, or multistage procedures may often be undesirable. The double scalping flap comprises a 1-stage procedure, which can be used in most full-thickness defects of the vertex of the scalp. Some of the primary advantages of the double scalping flap procedure are its versatility and arc of rotation, its minimal donor site morbidity, being relatively simple, and being a short technique. Disadvantages that may be considered are the loss of hair-bearing skin at the occipital region and the poor color and texture match between scalp skin and the split-thickness skin graft that is used on the donor site. We present 2 patients with exemplary case of neglected malignancy of the scalp and their successful treatment using the double scalping flap. Comparison and contrast of alternative reconstructive procedures are also included to further investigate scalp reconstruction