A simple method of designing a bilobed flap using a triangle template.
BACKGROUND
The bilobed flap is useful for the reconstruction of skin defects in which the primary closure is difficult. Proper design is paramount to achieve excellent cosmetic results, but flap design often appears unnecessarily complex and difficult.


OBJECTIVE
The objective was to discuss the geometry of the bilobed flap and describe a simple and practical method for constructing such flaps using a triangle template with emphasis on the pivot point.


METHODS
A detailed description with diagrams and an illustrative case are presented to demonstrate the technique.


RESULTS
A patient with a scalp defect was reconstructed with a triangle-template-designed bilobed flap with excellent postoperative results.


CONCLUSIONS
This new method using a triangle template ensures proper placement of the pivot point and will enable practitioners to achieve superior outcomes.
School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, USA.
Li-Xing
LX
Man
Benjamin
B
Chang
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012535:Scalp; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps