The Dog-Ear Rotation Flap for the Repair of Large Surgical Defects on the Head and Neck

BACKGROUND: The Mohs micrographic surgeon is often faced with the daunting challenge of having to repair very large surgical defects on the head and neck where cosmesis and maintenance of normal function are of paramount importance. OBJECTIVE: We describe a novel flap, the dog-ear rotation flap, for the repair of such defects. We will demonstrate that this flap offers superior cosmetic and functional results to many other closure options, particularly for extensive defects of the cheek, temple, forehead and scalp. METHODS: The dog-ear rotation flap is a combination repair. It is executed by first closing one end of the surgical defect in a primary side-to-side-fashion, to a point at which tension across the wound precludes any further closure. A rotation flap is then developed to close the remaining defect, using tissue from the large dog-ear created at the distal end of the wound. RESULTS: In our experience, the dog-ear rotation flap is able to close substantial head and neck defects with less tension across the wound edges when compared to other closure types, resulting in diminished scarring and little to no distortion of surrounding anatomic structures. It also provides an excellent tissue match, is relatively quick and easy to perform, and has an extremely low incidence of flap necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The dog-ear rotation flap is an excellent choice for the repair of very large surgical defects on the head and neck, particularly the cheek, temple, forehead and scalp, and, in our experience, provides a superior cosmetic and functional result to other closure options.     

Use of the Z-Plasty Technique for Forehead Defects

BACKGROUND: Surgical defects of the forehead are commonplace for the Mohs surgeon. The relaxed skin tension lines (RSTLs) of this region allow for repairs ranging from direct linear closures to more complex advancement flaps. Defects in which the longitudinal axis orients perpendicular to the RSTLs, whether secondary to wound shape or ease of tissue movement, present a somewhat more challenging problem. OBJECTIVE: To describe the use of the Z-plasty in repairing forehead surgical defects. METHOD: We illustrate two Mohs surgical cases in which the size and location of the forehead defect did not allow for a straightforward and cosmetically acceptable closure. Tissue mobility and defect shape permitted design and implementation of a Z-plasty. RESULTS: Use of the Z-plasty technique allowed a portion of the vertical incision line to be reoriented within the forehead RSTLs, producing a favorable cosmetic outcome. CONCLUSION: Forehead defects that are shaped such that the long axis is perpendicular to the RSTLs or located in a region where tissue mobility more easily permits a vertical closure can present a challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. Knowledge of tissue mechanics and use of rotation and advancement make the Z-plasty a favorable option in many of these situations.     

Bilateral cheek-to-nose advancement flap: an alternative to the paramedian forehead flap for reconstruction of the nose

Skin cancer on the nose is commonly treated with surgical excision resulting in defects that require closure. The surgeon is faced with many reconstructive options. The paramedian forehead flap is one commonly used technique. In this study we describe the bilateral cheek-to-nose advancement flap as an alternative to the paramedian forehead flap in patients with strong nasolabial folds and prominent cheek tissue laxity, who require closure of MOHS surgery defects on the nasal dorsum and sidewall. Twelve patients were treated with the latter flap and evaluated after 2 weeks and 6 months. The patients' subjective and the surgeons' objective evaluation after 6 months were either completely satisfied or satisfied. The bilateral cheek-to-nose advancement flap is a reliable tool in the interventional portfolio of the reconstructive surgeon.     

Electrosurgical Suspension Apparatus

BACKGROUND: Dermatologic surgeons commonly employ electrosurgery. OBJECTIVE: We describe a novel, yet simple, electrosurgical suspension apparatus and variations that facilitate the performance of excision and repair, Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic surgery, and other forms of dermatologic surgery. METHODS: The described techniques result from more than a decade of use and refinements in electrosurgical suspension apparatuses. RESULTS: The use of an electrosurgical suspension device has eliminated electrosurgical needle stick injuries, facilitated surgery, and reduced the risk of surgical field contamination via the electrosurgical handpiece or wiring. CONCLUSION: The use of a suspended electrosurgical handpiece results in reduced surgical time, eliminates many of the inconveniences associated with the current use of electrosurgery, and facilitates the use of electrosurgery as a tool of the dermatologic surgeon.     

A Novel Technique Using a Rotation Flap for Repairing Adjacent Surgical Defects

BACKGROUND: The incidence of head and neck carcinomas continues to rise. Surgical excision is a frequently used method for removing these carcinomas. It is not uncommon to have multiple skin carcinomas present at the same time or in close proximity to each other. Therefore, surgeons can be presented with the challenge of repairing adjacent surgical defects while avoiding unacceptable wound closure tension and distortion of neighboring structures. OBJECTIVE: The presentation of a novel method for repairing adjacent surgical defects with a rotation flap. MATERIALS: Standard excision tray. CONCLUSION : We present a novel method for repairing adjacent surgical defects with a rotation flap. Surgeons are presented with adjacent surgical defects and challenged to find the repair option that will give the most optimal cosmetic result. The options for closing small adjacent surgical defects include making the defects a single large defect for primary closure, full-thickness skin grafting, primary closure of each defect separately, flap coverage, secondary intention healing, or any combination of these. The use of a single rotation flap to cover two adjacent surgical defects provides the surgeon with a convenient and cosmetically acceptable option that avoids unacceptable wound tension and does not distort neighboring structures.     

Modified Burow''s Wedge Flap for Upper Lateral Lip Defects

BACKGROUND: There are fundamental concepts we use in managing surgical defects. Whether planning a primary closure or a local flap, we frequently modify the basic design to maximize aesthetic outcomes, taking into consideration a number of factors including the location of the defect and tissue availability. OBJECTIVE: We describe a modified Burow's wedge flap for upper lateral lip defects. METHOD: Report of an illustrated case. RESULT: A patient with an upper lip defect was successfully reconstructed using the modified Burow's wedge flap, where the Burrow's wedge is placed on the mucocutaneous lip. CONCLUSION: Certain modifications of commonly used reconstructive techniques can be utilized in specific situations to enhance cosmesis. For the Burow's wedge flap, the dermatologic surgeon has several options in placing the Burow's triangle. This is an example of how alternatives in a closure can be used depending on the laxity of the skin and the size of the defect. Advantages and disadvantages of this alternative placement of the Burow's triangle are discussed.     

Spindle Cell Lipoma of the Scalp A Case Report and Review

Cutaneous surgeons frequently evaluate and manage soft tissue tumors arising on the head and neck of adults. Of these, the most common tumor is the lipoma, and specific mesenchymal variants of lipoma occur classically on the head and neck. We describe a case of a large spindle cell lipoma of the posterior scalp, in order to highlight the classic location and differential diagnosis of the lipoma variants presenting commonly in this anatomic region. In addition, we review the role of preoperative imaging studies of scalp soft tissue tumors and discuss how imaging may assist the dermatologic surgeon in establishing the diagnosis and designing a rational surgical approach.     

Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans of the Forehead and Scalp with Involvement of the Outer Calvarial Plate: Multistaged Repair with the Use of Skin Expanders

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a locally aggressive and infiltrative tumor that requires Mohs' micrographic surgery or wide excision to treat. Adequate excision often leaves a cosmetic disfiguring defect, particularly if the tumor is located on the head and neck. Complex defects of the face present special problems, such as distortion, ectropion, and retraction of normal tissues. PATIENT AND METHODS: We present a case of an infiltrating DFSP of the forehead and scalp in a young woman. The tumor was removed, and the defect was reconstructed with multistaged repair, which included bone coverage, local and regional flaps, and the use of expanders. RESULTS: A multistaged repair was performed with good clinical outcome and satisfactory cosmetic results. CONCLUSION: Multistaged repair of the face is a viable alternative surgical approach to preserve facial contours and minimize distortion in the treatment of DFSP. This case illustrates the degree of complexity that the treatment of DFSP may involve.     

Reduction of Conchal Enlargement and/or Anterolateral Rotation: Otoplasty by the Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgeon

BACKGROUND: Otoplasty is the correction of protuberant ears. One of the most common malformations responsible for prominauris is conchal enlargement and/or anterolateral rotation. The surgical technique we utilize for the correction of this type of auricular malformation is not unlike the removal of auricular skin and cartilage frequently performed by dermatologic surgeons in the treatment of cutaneous malignancies of the ear. OBJECTIVE: To introduce the reduction of conchal enlargement and/or anterolateral rotation for the correction of protuberant ears into the armamentarium of the cosmetic dermatologic surgeon. METHODS: We describe in detail the development and anatomy of the ear along with indications, preoperative considerations, surgical technique, postoperative care, and potential complications for this type of cosmetic surgery. RESULTS: The technique described herein is an effective approach in the surgical management of protuberant ears that are caused by conchal enlargement and/or anterolateral rotation. CONCLUSION: With proper patient selection, thorough knowledge of this step-by-step surgical approach to otoplasty, and some prior surgical experience involving the skin and cartilage of the external ear, the successful correction of protuberant ears is well within the scope of the cosmetic dermatologic surgeon's practice.     

Forehead Donor Site Full-Thickness Skin Graft

BACKGROUND: Full-thickness skin grafts (FTSGs) are useful for reconstructing nasal defects. Traditional reported donor sites include the preauricular, postauricular, supraclavicular, clavicular, conchal bowl, melolabial fold, and upper eyelid skin. Selection of the "best" donor site is based on the "best" tissue match and ability to camouflage the donor scar. OBJECTIVE: The purpose was to report our experience with FTSGs harvested from the forehead for reconstruction of nasal defects following Mohs' surgery. METHODS: A retrospective query of the Mohs' surgery database was performed to identify nasal defects repaired with a FTSG harvested from the forehead skin. The research record contained the patient age and gender, defect size, and cosmetic and functional outcomes interpreted by the patient and surgeon. RESULTS: FTSGs from forehead skin were used to repair the nasal defects in three patients. The functional and cosmetic outcome of all three cases was deemed excellent by the patient and surgeon. Donor site scars were well concealed within preexisting rhytids. CONCLUSION: FTSGs harvested from the forehead, although limited in practical utility, may offer an optimal FTSG match for limited select defects while also providing an easily camouflaged donor site scar within a forehead rhytid.     

Extended applications for endoscopic forehead surgery

Endoscopic equipment and specially designed elevators and dissecting instruments provide access to the forehead and scalp region through minimal incisions. This technique is now widely accepted for aesthetic forehead and browlifts. To our knowledge, however, it has not previously been used in reconstructive forehead and scalp surgery. We carried out a retrospective review of 5 cases involving patients who underwent reconstructive scalp and frontal bone defect surgery: 2 patients had frontal defects that were contoured with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex; WL Gore & Assoc, Phoenix, Ariz) inserted endoscopically; 2 patients had scalp soft tissue defects that were treated with wide subgaleal undermining and endoscopically guided galeotomies that resulted in primary closure; and 1 patient was treated for facial paralysis to improve the aesthetic result. We conclude that aesthetic endoscopic surgical techniques and equipment can be used in reconstructive therapy for patients with bony and soft tissue defects of the scalp and forehead.     

Surgical Anatomy of the Scalp

BACKGROUND: The goal of complication-free scalp surgery remains elusive. Wide unsightly scars, stretch-atrophied hypesthetic, poorly vascularized tissues and distorted hair patterns are still commonly seen and appear to be largely refractory to remedial surgery. OBJECTIVE: To establish technical guidelines for scalp surgery most compatible with maximum functional/cosmetic benefit and complication-free results. METHODS: More than 3000 scalp operations, done personally, were reviewed. These covered the entire spectrum of plastic and reconstructive surgery and hair restoration procedures including more than 700 clinical surgical investigative procedures with pericranial flaps, subgaleal and subperiosteal scalp reductions, and deep plane fixation procedures. RESULTS: Notably improved scalp surgery outcomes resulted from the application of data derived from study of the surgical anatomy of the scalp. Unsightly scars, distorted hair patterns, hypesthetic poorly vascularized tissues, and distorted hair patterns were largely avoided. CONCLUSION: An understanding of the surgical anatomy of the scalp is a cornerstone on which complication-free scalp surgery is based.     

Improved Scalp Surgery Results By Controlling Tension Vector Forces in the Tissues by Galea to Pericranium Fixation Sutures

BACKGROUND: Tension, manifesting at the time of wound closure, limits the extent of tissue excision and predisposes to complications. Extensive undermining may be an unreliable technique to reduce tissue tension in surgery. Pericranium is a rarely used tissue in scalp surgery. OBJECTIVE: To show that the surgical technique of deep plane fixation reduces tissue tension at and adjacent to the wound, allowing relatively greater excision and reduced tension closure, and extensive undermining may be an ineffectual and potentially harmful surgical technique. I also update the surgical anatomy of the pericranium and determine its utility in scalp reconstructive surgery. METHODS: More than 1000 scalp operations, including 700 clinical investigative procedures, were done which included pericranial flaps, subgaleal and subperiosteal scalp reductions, and deep plane fixation. RESULTS: The alopecia removal operation described herein utilizing deep plane fixation is largely complication free and achieves tension-reduced closure and between 18% and 50% greater tissue removal compared with conventional alopecia reduction procedures. CONCLUSION: Pericranium is a valuable and readily usable tissue in reconstructive scalp surgery.     

Superiorly Based Nasolabial Interpolation Flap for Repair of Complex Nasal Tip Defects

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of full-thickness defects of the nasal tip is one of the most challenging aspects of cutaneous oncologic surgery. It is imperative that the cutaneous surgeon be intimately familiar with all the available surgical options to provide for the best postoperative outcome. OBJECTIVE: To describe an additional surgical option for reconstruction of complex small to medium-size full-thickness nasal tip defects involving more than one cosmetic unit. METHODS: Three patients underwent reconstruction of complex full-thickness nasal tip defects using a two-stage nasolabial interpolation flap. RESULTS: Closure of each surgical defect was achieved with the two-stage nasolabial interpolation flap with good cosmetic results in the first postoperative year. CONCLUSIONS: The two-stage nasolabial interpolation flap is a useful tool in the reconstruction of complex full-thickness defects of the nasal tip.     

Deep Plane Fixation in Integumental Surgery

Background. Standard wound closure techniques are prone to complication in the presence of tension.
Objective. To show that deep plane fixation (DPF), a surgical modality based on limited undermining and strategic placement of DPF sutures, affects tension-reduced closure in wounds that would otherwise require skin grafts/flaps or tissue expansion.
Methods. The study is based on an analysis of over 2000 scalp operations.
Results. Two groupings of identical sagittal scalp reductions were done. DPF was used in one and not the other. In the series with DPF, reduced tension closure was consistently possible, as was significantly increased excision, relative to the series without DPF.
Conclusions. DPF narrows the wound base and channels tension forces from superficial to deep and/or nonundermined tissues (where they harmlessly dissipate). This allows relatively increased tissue excision and tension-reduced closure.     

Elder Care and the Dermatologic Surgeon

BACKGROUND: The elderly are an increasing percentage of the population and dermatologic surgeons will be caring for more senior citizens. OBJECTIVE: Understanding issues in geriatric care will help both surgeons and patients have productive and rewarding encounters. METHODS: Approaches to the care of elders are detailed in this article. Surgical tips for the senior patient are prescribed. RESULTS: Older patients need more time and may need special assistance. Multiplicity of disease increases with age. A third-party interview can be helpful in gathering information. The elderly have sensory loss and benefit from extra attention, follow-up telephone calls, and therapeutic touch. Written handouts and instructions printed in large type are excellent. Dermatologic care should be kept as simple as possible with surgical closures designed to require minimal attention. Be cognizant of the social services available for the elderly and watch for dermatologic signs of internal disease. A skin care program for the elderly is helpful and cosmetic procedures are of interest to seniors. CONCLUSIONS: Dermatologic surgeons can provide excellent care to elders. An understanding of gerontologic issues and surgical tips can help the dermatologic surgeon care for the older patient.     

A Modified Running Subcuticular Suturing Technique for the Closure of Defects After Mohs Micrographic Surgery

BACKGROUND: The running subcuticular suturing technique is useful for the closure of surgical defects with minimal tension. OBJECTIVE: To determine the safety and efficacy of a modified running subcuticular suturing technique for the closure of facial wounds produced by Mohs micrographic surgery. METHODS: Five patients between the ages of 58 and 92 years, each with one Mohs defect on the face, were studied. One half of each defect was repaired with simple interrupted sutures, and the other half was repaired using the modified running subcuticular technique. RESULTS: There were no major differences in cosmetic outcome of the surgical sites at suture removal and at 1-week and 3-month follow-up examinations. No surgical complications occurred in any of the patients studied. CONCLUSION: We demonstrate that the modified running subcuticular suturing technique may be a safe and effective alternative for the primary, layered closure of defects from Mohs micrographic surgery.     

Double-free, flow-through flap reconstruction for complex scalp defects: a case report

This case report describes the use of a double-free, flow-through flap as a valuable tool in reconstruction following oncological resection of a large, fungating, squamous cell carcinoma extending through the scalp, forehead, skull, and dura. An anterolateral thigh flap was utilized to supply: soft tissue for the forehead reconstruction, vascularized fascia lata for the dural repair, and to act vascular conduit to supply a distally placed latissmus dorsi flap for total scalp reconstruction. We believe this is the first time this combination of double-free, flow-through flap design has been published for the reconstruction of complex, composite scalp and calvarial defects.     

Hair Transplantation: Management of Donor Area

BACKGROUND: Hair transplantation entails the removing of a strip of permanent hair from the occipital scalp and reimplanting it piecemeal into the recipient area. Methodologies for effecting this are reasonably complex and have undergone many changes and improvements over the years. The simplest part of hair transplantation, at least in theory, is the removal of the donor strip and closure of the resultant defect. Unfortunately, however, the improvements that have taken place in hair transplantation in general have not spilled over into improved donor area outcomes. Unsightly donor scars and fibrosis are still not only with us, but are possibly even more pervasive than ever. One explanation given for deteriorated donor sites is the harvesting of relatively greater numbers of grafts. But is this the whole story? OBJECTIVE: To describe some technical aspects of donor area management consistent with harvesting the best possible donor strip, while leaving an inconspicuous scar and preserving the viability of the residual tissues for subsequent harvesting. METHODS: In 1994 a clinical research project designed to determine what technical surgical modalities are optimal for excising and reconstructing scalp tissues was commenced. This was done with particular reference to the donor area in hair transplantation. The study involved more than 1000 scalp operations using various techniques and instrumentation, and comparing and contrasting results. RESULTS: The best results were obtained when tissues were least traumatized. Tension generated at wound closure was found to be the main culprit in determining less than optimal residual donor sites. CONCLUSION: Notably improved postharvesting donor sites are most likely to result when measures are taken to ensure minimal trauma by taking definitive steps to combat tension in the tissues. Modest undermining combined with deep plane fixation facilitates channeling of tension vector forces from at-risk superficial tissues into nonundermined tissues and deep tissues, each of which is optimally equipped to withstand the adverse consequences of tension.     

Staged Cheek-to-Nose and Auricular Interpolation Flaps

Background. Staged interpolation flaps are priceless options in skin cancer reconstruction. Their value lies in their flexibility, reach, reliability, and ability to repair distant, complex facial defects. Familiar interpolation flaps to dermatologic surgeons include the paramedian forehead flap, cheek-to-nose interpolation flaps, and auricular staged flaps.
Objective. In this special reconstructive issue, the paramedian forehead flap is discussed separately. This article highlights the cheek-to-nose and auricular interpolation flaps as applied to skin cancer defects. Design considerations, anatomic basis, execution, and the distinctions of each repair are presented.
Materials and Methods. Patients with facial defects from Mohs micrographic surgery serve to illustrate the surgical techniques of each repair.
Results. With meticulous planning and thoughtful execution, cheek-to-nose and auricular staged flaps are capable of restoring both function and cosmesis. Several surgical stages are necessary, and an adequate supporting infrastructure is essential for an optimal outcome.
Conclusion. Skin cancer patients with complex facial wounds from Mohs micrographic surgery may be assured of the highest possible cure rate. Further, their esthetic and functional reconstructive goals may be achieved with staged flaps for the nose and ear.