Reconstruction of nasal ala with nasolabial perforator flap after cancer removal.

Before the concept of perforator anatomy and perforasome has been established, coverage of defects in nasal alar was performed with random local flaps from adjacent skin. This method was fairly successful, but restrictions in flap mobility were a major drawback. Attempting to overcome this disadvantage, authors have found considerable advantage in flap mobility and rotation by using perforator flaps based on nasolabial perforators. After removal of malignancy on nose, eight patients had received reconstruction with perforator flap based on nasolabial perforator of facial artery, which was elevated as an island pattern. All flaps survived completely. Two cases which were rotated extensively in propeller pattern temporarily experienced flap congestion, but this resolved completely. All donor sites were healed with direct closure. Versatility of this flap provides further utilization in reconstruction of other facial regions. We are reporting our novel method with update of the literature.
Source: Head and Neck Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research