Summary
Background
The V–Y advancement flap has been widely used for the reconstruction of cutaneous
defects for decades; however, the movement of a V–Y flap is sometimes limited, allowing
only for rotation or advancement movement. To overcome this limitation, the present
study introduces a transposition movement of the V–Y flap and assesses its clinical
outcome for facial reconstruction.
Materials and methods
A modified V–Y flap was designed with a single laterally based pedicle and transferred
to the defect through a transposition movement. The transposition movement was demonstrated
with photographs and the clinical outcome was described in six patients.
Results
This modified V–Y flap was reliable and robust, and could be moved easily with less
tension. Meanwhile, the flap allowed for a primary closure of the defects along the
nasolabial fold or preauricular crease. More importantly, all six patients achieved
satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes in facial reconstruction. Temporary
sensory alteration was common in the flap skin during the initial postoperative period,
but improved as time passed and disappeared about 6 months later.
Conclusion
This modified transposition V–Y flap may serve as an alternative option for aesthetic
reconstruction of facial defects.
Keywords
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References
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- An innovation in the subcutaneous island pedicle flap for cutaneous reconstruction.J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2006; 59: 174-180
Article info
Publication history
Published online: January 17, 2007
Accepted:
October 27,
2006
Received:
March 1,
2006
Identification
Copyright
© 2006 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
