Introduction: Reconstruction of scalp defects is challenging because of the convex contour, hair-bearing skin, and need for durable calvarial coverage. The hatchet flap combines advancement and rotation, redistributes tension, and preserves adjacent hair-bearing tissue. This study evaluated the clinical utility and surgeon-assessed outcomes of hatchet flap reconstruction for medium-sized scalp defects after excision of benign or malignant lesions.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 18 patients who underwent hatchet flap-based scalp reconstruction between March 2024 and 2026. Indications included skin cancer, soft-tissue mass, nevus sebaceous, seborrheic keratosis, epidermal cyst, infected cystic mass, and scalp skin necrosis. After excision or debridement, primary closure was not feasible because of defect size, location, or closure tension. Flaps were designed according to defect location and surrounding tissue mobility. Postoperative flap viability, wound complications, revision surgery, hair-bearing appearance, aesthetic outcomes, and local symptoms were reviewed.
Results: Defects involved the scalp, occiput, vertex, or temple. All patients achieved successful wound closure. No total or partial flap necrosis occurred, and no patient required reoperation or secondary reconstruction. The operating surgeon assessed postoperative contour, tissue match, and preservation of hair-bearing scalp as satisfactory. Pain, pruritus, and other local discomfort were minimal or tolerable during follow-up.
Conclusion: Hatchet flap-based reconstruction is a reliable and versatile option for scalp defects that cannot be closed primarily. It provides durable coverage, favorable tissue matching, preservation of hair-bearing scalp, and satisfactory surgeon-assessed aesthetic outcomes. Longer follow-up is required to evaluate scar maturation, alopecia, long-term aesthetic results, and symptom changes.