Reconstruction of a Scalp Defect After Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Resection with a Rotation Flap: A Case Report

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Published: Jul 29, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.47191/ijmscrs/v6-i7-54
Keywords:
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma Scalp reconstruction Rotation flap Scalp neoplasms Reconstructive surgical procedures Case report

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Gallardo Santiago Regina
General Surgery. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Morelia, Michoacán, México.
Villarreal Salgado José Luis
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital Regional “Dr. Valentín Gómez Farías”, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE), Zapopan, Jalisco, México
Méndez Chávez Jorge Eduardo
General Surgery. Universidad de Guadalajara. Guadalaja, Jalisco, México.
Guzmán Pérez Fernanda Pamela
Department of General Surgery, Hospital Regional "Elvia Carrillo Puerto", Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE), Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.

Abstract

Introduction: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp requires complete oncologic excision followed by reconstruction that provides durable soft-tissue coverage while preserving scalp contour and hair-bearing tissue. Local rotation flaps remain a reliable reconstructive option for appropriately selected defects.


Case Presentation: A 94-year-old man presented with a progressively enlarging left frontotemporal scalp lesion. Wide local excision with oncologically appropriate margins was performed, followed by immediate reconstruction using a wide-based local rotation flap elevated in the subgaleal plane. The flap achieved tension-free closure with preservation of scalp contour. Histopathological examination confirmed invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with negative surgical margins. The postoperative course was uneventful, with complete primary wound healing and no evidence of regional or distant metastasis.


Discussion: Local rotation flaps remain a safe and effective reconstructive option for selected scalp defects following cSCC excision, providing reliable vascularity, tension-free closure, and favorable functional and aesthetic outcomes, even in elderly patients.


Conclusion: This case highlights the role of local rotation flaps as a dependable first-line reconstructive option for selected scalp defects following cSCC excision, achieving durable coverage with favorable functional and aesthetic outcomes.

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How to Cite
Regina, Gallardo Santiago, Villarreal Salgado José Luis, Méndez Chávez Jorge Eduardo, and Guzmán Pérez Fernanda Pamela. 2026. “Reconstruction of a Scalp Defect After Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Resection With a Rotation Flap: A Case Report”. International Journal of Medical Science and Clinical Research Studies 6 (07):1604-7. https://doi.org/10.47191/ijmscrs/v6-i7-54.
Issue
Vol. 6 No. 07 (2026): Volume 06 Issue 07 July 2026
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Articles
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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