Reconstruction of medial canthal skin defects with local flaps： 15 case report

Abstract

Objective To reconstruct skin defects with local flaps after resection of tumors. Methods From October 2006 to December 2009, medial canthal defects in 15 patients were repaired with local flaps in the hospital. The size of the defects varied from 1 cm × 1 cm to 1.8 cm × 2.0 cm. According to the size and location of the defects, different local flaps such as glabellar flaps ,rotation flaps, advancement flaps, nasolabial flaps and combination of these local flaps were selected and designed to repair the skin defects. Results Of the 15 patients, 12 received the reconstruction of skin defects with single flap, the other 3 with two flaps; totally,18 local flaps were designed and applied. All the flaps survived with primary healing postoperatively. A followup in 11 patients for 6 to 12 months showed that the color and texture of flaps were similar to those of surrounding tissues and incision line scar was inconspicuous. Medial canthal contours were restored without distortion of surrounding structures. Satisfactory function and aesthetic outcomes were achieved. Conclusions In the repair of inner canthus skin defects, to maintain and restore the ＂cosmetic unit＂ integrity of inner canthus by using suitable local flaps would lead to a satisfying restoration of function and appearance. Key words: Skin neoplasms; Reconstructive surgical procedures; Surgical flaps