Free vascularized fascia lata flap for total columella reconstruction

INTRODUCTION

Despite their relatively small size, columellar defects, including both external and internal elements, are exceedingly difficult to reconstruct. Local, regional, and distant flaps have been described for reconstruction. Herein, we present a novel technique for reconstruction of the columella using vascularized free fascia lata from the anterolateral thigh with structural replacement and skin grafting.

METHODS

This novel technique utilizes a small anterolateral thigh flap, formed into vascularized fascia lata without the overlying subcutaneous fat or skin. The fascia lata is inset into the columellar and caudal septal defect after a cartilage framework is constructed and is microsurgically anastomosed to either distal facial or angular vessels. A skin graft from the ALT donor site is then secured over the fascia.

RESULTS

This technique has been applied successfully in patients with either isolated columella or in multi-subunit reconstruction following total rhinectomy with no flap or reconstructive failures. Given the low morbidity of flap harvest and minimal access incisions, this has been reliably accomplished with short (1-2 day) hospital stays.

CONCLUSION

Rapid and aesthetically acceptable reconstruction of total nasal columella defects in isolation or with additional nasal subunit reconstruction, is possible utilizing this novel technique. Here we discuss pearls and pitfalls of its use following surgical resection of malignancy.

Checkmark rotation flap for nasal tip reconstruction in Asian patients

Background: Nasal tip reconstruction (NTR) of the Mohs defect is challenging, especially in Asians who have a relatively low nasal bridge and thin cartilages.Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of a new flap design, the checkmark rotation flap (CRF), for NTR in AsiansMethods and materials: We retrospectively reviewed 31 cases of NTR. Among these, 15 cases underwent CRF, which uses skin from the columellar or infra-tip area with a checkmark v-shaped incision (CRF group). The remaining 16 cases underwent reconstruction with other flaps such as the bilobed or island pedicle flap (Others group).Results: The average defect area was larger in the CRF than in the Others group (1.85 ± 1.01 cm² vs. 1.10 ± 0.72 cm², p = .0499), but the visual analog scale score was significantly higher in the CRF group (7.97 ± 1.36 vs. 6.25 ± 1.62, p = .0059). For complications, a depressed scar was observed in four cases (26.7%) in the CRF group; nine cases (56.3%) in the Others group presented with a depressed scar, hypertrophic scar, or scarring similar to a trap door deformity.Conclusion: CRF may be a favorable option for the reconstruction of intermediate-sized nasal tip defects, providing good cosmetic outcomes.