P J Weber1, B R Moody, J A Foster. 1. Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Surgical excision of skin lesions is a common dermatologic procedure. OBJECTIVE: An alternative to the elliptical excision is described. METHODS: We present an excisional technique that creates a series of nonepidermal outwardly spiraling flaps. The surgical defect is closed with specially tunneled absorbable suture. RESULTS: There has been no increase in infectious complications or wound failures compared with standard ellipses. Proper patient and lesion selection aids in obtaining an acceptable outcome. CONCLUSION: The series spiral advancement flap has the potential to become a useful and common surgical technique.
BACKGROUND: Surgical excision of skin lesions is a common dermatologic procedure. OBJECTIVE: An alternative to the elliptical excision is described. METHODS: We present an excisional technique that creates a series of nonepidermal outwardly spiraling flaps. The surgical defect is closed with specially tunneled absorbable suture. RESULTS: There has been no increase in infectious complications or wound failures compared with standard ellipses. Proper patient and lesion selection aids in obtaining an acceptable outcome. CONCLUSION: The series spiral advancement flap has the potential to become a useful and common surgical technique.