The Application of Modified Kite Flap: A Novel Technique for Reconstruction of Defects in Areas with High Tension

It is challenging to reconstruct defects resulting from surgical procedures in areas with high tension. We present modified kite flaps that allowed us to reconstruct the defect with high mechanical tension.

With the combination of advancement and rotation, the defect using bilateral modified kite flaps closes with significantly reduced tension. The double flap not only advances but also rotates the flap. This technique retained and exploited the limbs of the flaps, which were often removed with the traditional V-Y flaps.

Eleven patients have had their surgical defects repaired using this technique, and the results were satisfactory. A follow-up period of three months or longer was conducted. There were no perioperative complications, and major anatomic landmarks were reconstructed. All patients were satisfied with the functional recovery.

The modified method enables a significantly shortened advancement distance of flaps, more flexible flap movement, and sacrifice of healthy tissue to be minimal, and significantly diminished tension for closure. Approximately half the width and length of traditional V-Y flaps were used in this flap donor. Preserving the flap limbs, which were often removed with the traditional V-Y flaps, was also applied to fill defects. Modified kite flaps are a suitable option for the repair of defects in areas with high tension.