The occipital artery flap for transfer of hair-bearing tissue.

Abstract

The posterior scalp is investigated as the donor site for the transfer of hair-bearing tissue based on the occipital artery. The dissection of fresh cadavers was performed and the occipital artery was noted to have three major branches including a vertical, transverse, and descending branch. The vessel connection across the midline allowed transfer of the posterior scalp to the desired recipient site. This vessel provides the possibility of transfer of large areas of hair-bearing tissue to a single stage. The variability of flap design is described as well as the technical considerations for a successful transfer.