Combined Linear Closure and Burow's Graft for a Dorsal Nasal Defect

Abstract

This chapter discusses a case where a large defect on the dorsal nose was created by tumor excision for a patient with a history of facial skin cancer. Perhaps the easiest option in this situation would be a full-thickness skin graft (FTSG). In this case, the large dorsal nasal defect following Mohs micrographic surgery could not be closed primarily despite wide lateral undermining. The doctors chose to reconstruct this defect with a linear closure combined with a local Burow's (dog-ear) graft. This technique is demonstrated in this chapter. Large defects of the nose can be particularly challenging, but there are a vast number of reconstructive options for repair. This case highlights several important principles in caring for patients with skin cancer. On tight skin or in areas where tissue conservation needs to be at a premium, a Burow's graft combined with a partial closure can be an ideal solution.