Maryam Asgari1, Peter Odland. 1. Division of Dermatology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA. masgari@u.washington.edu
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Defects of the nasal ala can be difficult to repair in a one-stage procedure. We describe a laterally based nasalis myocutaneous island pedicle flap to repair small but deep defects of the superior nasal ala. OBJECTIVE: To describe a single-stage flap for repair of small defects on the nasal ala that confines the repair to one cosmetic unit. METHODS: We discuss the anatomy of the flap and illustrate the method of placing the flap. RESULTS: We present several case examples and discuss potential applications of the flap. We also discuss the flap's limitations by citing an example of necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The nasalis myocutaneous island pedicle flap for repair of nasal alar defects is a new application of a one-stage procedure that yields excellent functional and cosmetic results. Knowledge of the limitations and the anatomy of the flap is crucial for a good outcome.
BACKGROUND: Defects of the nasal ala can be difficult to repair in a one-stage procedure. We describe a laterally based nasalis myocutaneous island pedicle flap to repair small but deep defects of the superior nasal ala. OBJECTIVE: To describe a single-stage flap for repair of small defects on the nasal ala that confines the repair to one cosmetic unit. METHODS: We discuss the anatomy of the flap and illustrate the method of placing the flap. RESULTS: We present several case examples and discuss potential applications of the flap. We also discuss the flap's limitations by citing an example of necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The nasalis myocutaneous island pedicle flap for repair of nasal alar defects is a new application of a one-stage procedure that yields excellent functional and cosmetic results. Knowledge of the limitations and the anatomy of the flap is crucial for a good outcome.