Repair of Extensive Composite Alar Defects with Single Stage Nasolabial Turnover Flap and Auricular Composite Graft

Abstract

Extensive and total (through and through) loss of ala or lobule of the nose as seen in severe traumas and neglected tumours should be replaced by the three anatomical layers of skin, cartilage and vestibular lining. A technique of nasolabial turnover flap transfer covered by a two layered auricular chondrocutaneous graft is described for reconstructing such total losses >1.5 cm. The method of survival of large volume chondrocutaneous grafts is described as well as the advantages of this technique over other alternatives.

(Nig J Surg Res 2001; 3: 133 – 138)


KEY WORDS:

Alar defects, Repair