"Composite graft": a simple option for nasal lining.
BACKGROUND
We present our experience in the reconstruction of full-thickness losses of the substance of the nose using a forehead flap and a composite graft (taken from the anterior surface of the concha and adequately shaped) as both support and endonasal lining. This technique has never been described for the reconstruction of large full-thickness losses of the substance of the nose. The donor site of the composite graft in the concha is repaired by a Masson retroauricular flap.


METHODS
This technique was used on 14 patients (age range, 52-92 years) after full-thickness excision of tumors of the distal third of the nose. Follow-up was from 1 to 4 years. All the composite grafts were revascularized.


RESULTS
The results obtained were stable over time, and rhinoscopy, carried out 6 months after the operation, confirmed a homogeneous aspect and a perfect integration of the graft in the residual mucosa.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of a composite graft for internal lining and a forehead flap for external skin allowed is to obtain good results with minimal retraction. This technique is simple, fast and almost free of side effects.
Cordova
Adriana
A
Dipartimento di Discipline Chirurgiche ed Oncologiche, Sezione di Chirurgia Plastica, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy. adriana.cordova@excite.com
Di Lorenzo
Sara
S
Moschella
Francesco
F
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000601:surgery*; D004425:Ear Cartilage / Q000637:transplantation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009666:Nose / Q000601:surgery*; D012225:Rhinoplasty / Q000379:methods*; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013536:Suture Techniques; D016896:Treatment Outcome