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Coronoid-Temporalis Pedicled Flap for Orbital Floor Defect Reconstruction
Published on: December 5, 2025
Complications with forehead flaps in nasal reconstruction
Stewart C Little1, Brian B Hughley, Stephen S Park
1and Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908-0713, USA.
The Laryngoscope
|May 7, 2009
Summary
Forehead flap reconstruction for nasal defects poses risks. Smokers with full-thickness defects face higher complication rates, particularly flap necrosis. Other comorbidities like diabetes and vascular disease did not significantly increase risks.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Otolaryngology
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Nasal reconstruction using forehead flaps is a common procedure.
- Identifying risk factors for complications is crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify patient characteristics and comorbidities associated with increased complication rates after nasal reconstruction with forehead flaps.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 205 patients undergoing nasal reconstruction with forehead flaps between 1995 and 2008.
- Comorbidities tracked included diabetes, smoking, and vascular disease.
- Major complications (flap necrosis, nasal obstruction, alar notching) and minor adverse outcomes were recorded.
Main Results:
- Full-thickness defects were significantly associated with higher rates of major complications, including flap necrosis and alar notching.
- Smokers had significantly higher odds of developing flap necrosis.
- Diabetes, increased age, and vascular disease were not significantly associated with increased major complication rates.
Conclusions:
- Smokers with full-thickness defects are at a greater risk for postoperative complications following nasal reconstruction with forehead flaps.
- This finding aids in surgical planning and patient counseling for reconstructive procedures.
