title: Immediate Z-plasty for semicircular wounds.
abstract: Simple layered repair of semicircular and curved lacerations frequently results in elevation of the central area following contraction of the scar. Traditionally, immediate tissue rearrangement at the time of the injury has been discouraged. We performed single or multiple Z-plasties at the time of the initial repair on five consecutive patients with curved and semicircular lacerations of the face. None of the wounds formed the typical trapdoor deformity. Use of immediate Z-plasties in the acute management of semicircular flaplike lacerations seems to prevent the formation of the trapdoor deformity.
authors.forename: F N
authors.initials: FN
authors.lastname: Gahhos
authors.forename: R I
authors.initials: RI
authors.lastname: Simmons
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003286:Contracture / Q000517:prevention & control*; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D005151:Facial Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D005152:Facial Muscles / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013536:Suture Techniques