Objective To explore the different reconstructive methods for scalp defect. Methods From June 2007 to June 2014, 36 patients with scalp and calvaria defects caused by trauma（16 cases） and tumor（20 cases） were treated with direct suturing or local flap（28 cases）, fascial flap combing skin grafting（4 cases）, remote skin flap（2 cases） and free flap（2cases）. Results All the patients were followed up for 1 to 6 months, the flaps including skin grafts were all survived, and no major complications were observed. In the patients treated with direct suturing or local flap, the scar was less obvious and the hair grew better compared with other methods. Conclusion Local flap is an excellent reconstructive option for repairing the scalp defect with its convenience, high survival rate, good hair growth and good appearance.