Clinical application of lower cross-lip flap in treatment of upper lip defect

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the clinical effect of the upper lip defect with lower cross-lip flap (Abbe-Estlander flap).Methods A total of 68 cases of upper lip defect underwent the reconstruction with cross-lip flaps.We applied Abbe flap in upper lip defect in the center,and Estlander flap in lateral upper lip defect.This method was a two-stage procedure:the first stage was to rotate flap 180 degrees into the upper lip defect and to suture with the created defect of the upper lip,with careful maintenance of blood supply from the pedicle; the second was to undertake the division of bridged pedicle and paid more attention to creation of the vermilion border.Results The flaps survived in all cases.Evaluation from 3 to 12 months after the operation showed that the shape of lips were obviously repaired with excellent aesthetic and functional results.Conclusions Abbe-Estlander flap could reconstruct anatomical features and function of the lip precisely.It seems that within certain limits (probably between one-third and one-half of total upper lip length),this flap appears to be the preferred method for upper lip reconstruction. Key words: Lip flap; Abbe-Estlander lip flap; Upper lip defect