An original procedure for orbitonasal cutaneous infiltrative tumor repair, using combined forehead and melolabial...

Resections of cutaneous tumors in the medial orbitonasal region can be transfixing. Repairs using a single local flap run the risk of failure and that of secondary sinonasal fistula, especially in cases of surgery on a radiated field. We propose an original and reliable repair procedure using two pedicled regional flaps vascularized by two distinct arterial systems clinched together to reconstruct the mucosal and cutaneous planes.

A first melolabial propeller flap (MPF) with a superior perforating pedicle was elevated and the cutaneous side was sutured to the deep plane of the loss of substance (mucosal lining). A second homolateral or contralateral paramedian forehead flap (PFF) was then lifted and sutured over the first flap (superficial plane). The forehead pedicle flap was divided at 1 month.

No trophic complication or failure was recorded on two patients. The 7-year carcinologic, aesthetic, and functional results were satisfying.

This technique involving the superimposition of two local flaps, vascularized by two different arterial systems, appears to offer a simple and reliable repair technique for transfixing cutaneous losses of substance in the medial orbitonasal region. It could be used in the first-line treatment, particularly if an additional radiotherapy is to be performed.