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Expanded unilateral forehead flap (sail flap) for coverage of opposite forehead defect
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Toho University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|November 1, 1993
Summary
The novel sail flap technique uses skin expansion to effectively cover forehead defects. This method provides thin, viable flaps with minimal scarring, improving aesthetic outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Dermatologic Surgery
Background:
- Forehead skin defects present reconstructive challenges.
- Traditional flap methods may result in suboptimal aesthetics or donor site morbidity.
Observation:
- A technique utilizing an expanded unilateral forehead flap from the contralateral side, termed the 'sail flap,' was employed.
- Five patients with forehead skin defects were treated using this method.
Findings:
- Skin expansion yielded an ideal thin flap suitable for the forehead aesthetic unit.
- The sail flap demonstrated sufficient viability, appropriate size, and shape for defect coverage.
- The donor site was minimal, with scars concealed by the hairline, leading to good patient acceptance.
Implications:
- The sail flap is a viable and aesthetically advantageous option for forehead defect reconstruction.
- This technique minimizes donor site morbidity and improves patient satisfaction.
- Further studies can explore the long-term outcomes and broader applications of the sail flap.