Nose resurfacing with free fasciocutaneous flaps in burns patients

Nasal reconstruction after burn injury can be challenging due to limited availability of local flaps. We present our experience of free flap reconstruction for full-thickness nasal defect after severe facial burn injury.

Between August 1998 and September 2015, six patients underwent nasal reconstruction with seven free flaps after burn injury. Among them, flame burn occurred in two patients, chemical burn in two, explosive burn in one, and contact thermal burn in one patient. The percentage of total body surface area ranged from 4% to 48%, and the face and forehead were involved in all patients. Their clinical and photographic records were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate the aesthetic results.

Four ulnar forearm flaps, one radial forearm flap, one anterolateral thigh flap, and one medial sural artery perforator flap were used for nasal reconstruction. The nasal framework was constructed simultaneously using costal cartilage or conchal cartilage. The facial artery and vein were typically used as recipient vessels. One case each of partial necrosis and infection were noted during the average follow-up of 59 months (range, 16-126 months). Patients had satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes after 4.5 times (range, 2-7 times) refinement operation.

Free flap is an applicable alternative to restore nasal skin envelope, with rebuilding the nasal framework performed in the same stage after severe facial burn injury. Through thoughtful planning and sufficient refinement, satisfactory aesthetic, and functional results are achievable.