Application of modified V-Y advancement flap for reconstruction of facial defect

Abstract

Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of modified V-Y advancement flap for reconstruction of facial skin defect. Methods:Thirty-eight patients with facial skin tumors underwent individual tumor resection according to pathological type and lesion depth. Based on the defect site and size, appropriate V-Y advancement flap was designed to reconstruct the skin defect in one stage. There were 9 cases of classic subcutaneous tissue pedicle V-Y advancement flap, 24 cases of modified subcutaneous tissue pedicle V-Y advancement flap and 5 cases of perforated V-Y advancement flap in our study. Results:Among the 38 patients, 34 cases had primary healing. Two cases developed necrosis at the edge of the flap and healed after debridement. Local infection occurred in 2 cases, which healed after short-term dressing change. Postoperative mild eyelid ectropion occurred in 2 cases and oral horn displacement in 1 case. The patients were followed up for 6-36 months postoperatively, and the function and appearance recovered well. One case had local recurrence and 3 cases had parotid lymph node metastasis, which were removed again and supplemented with radiotherapy. Conclusion:The improved design of V-Y advancement flap can enlarge the scope of facial defect reconstruction, and achieve good appearance and function.