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Abbe Flap Reconstruction of the Upper Lip
Edward A Luce1, Xi Lin Jing1, Terri Carlson1
1From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|February 26, 2020
Summary
Reconstruction of large upper lip defects often requires an Abbe flap. Proper Abbe flap design and harvest from the lower lip are crucial for optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes in lip reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Dermatologic Surgery
Background:
- Reconstructing significant upper lip defects can be challenging, potentially leading to tightness and deformity.
- The Abbe flap, a type of lip switch flap, is a reconstructive option for such defects.
- Basal cell carcinoma excision can create philtral defects requiring reconstruction.
Observation:
- The design and harvest of the Abbe flap are critical for successful reconstruction.
- The flap is harvested from the lower lip and rotated into the upper lip defect.
- A video demonstrates the rotation of an Abbe flap into a philtral defect.
Findings:
- Meticulous design of the Abbe flap ensures a good aesthetic and functional result.
- The surgical technique involves harvesting the flap from the lower lip for inset into the defect.
- Successful inset of the Abbe flap addresses the upper lip defect.
Implications:
- Effective Abbe flap reconstruction can restore both form and function to the upper lip.
- This technique is valuable for managing defects resulting from oncologic resections.
- Optimizing Abbe flap design minimizes complications and improves patient satisfaction in lip reconstruction.
