Unmasking nasal basal cell carcinoma: Strategies for defect coverage

Area of Science:

• Dermatologic Surgery
• Plastic Surgery
• Oncology

Background:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a common skin cancer.
• Reconstruction methods for BCC defects vary globally.
• No prior studies detail preferred BCC reconstruction in Malaysia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the preferred method for nasal BCC reconstruction in Malaysia.
• To evaluate outcomes of different reconstruction techniques for nasal BCC.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of nasal BCC patients.
• Study conducted at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia and Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II.
• Data collected from 2012 to 2024.

Main Results:

• Seven patients (5 female, 2 male; ages 60-77) were included.
• All patients received immediate soft tissue reconstruction (local, regional, or free flaps).
• One patient experienced flap-related complications; all had good functional and cosmetic outcomes after 3-38 months follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Local flaps are ideal for small to medium nasal BCC defects.
• Forehead and free flaps are suitable for larger or complex defects.
• Asian patients' skin characteristics necessitate tailored flap design for optimal results.