Free anterolateral thigh fascia lata flap for complex nasal lining defects.

OBJECTIVE

To introduce a novel technique for the reconstruction of complex nasal lining defects using the free vascularized anterolateral thigh fascia lata flap.

METHODS

Free anterolateral thigh fascia lata flaps were used to replace nasal lining in 5 patients with total or subtotal rhinectomy defects. We performed a retrospective medical record review.

RESULTS

No flap failure or lining loss was observed, and harvest site morbidity was negligible. Patients achieved satisfactory nasal form and patent nasal airways without a need for repeated revisions. In 2 patients, the anterolateral thigh flap was used simultaneously to restore the midface contour or to repair anterior skull base defects.

CONCLUSIONS

In this case series, we demonstrate the novel use of vascularized fascia lata to provide viable nasal lining in total and subtotal nasal defect reconstruction. Potential advantages offered by this technique compared with more established methods include (1) single-stage replacement of nasal lining, structure, and skin coverage; (2) fewer additional stages of reconstruction to achieve functional and aesthetic results; (3) thin lining to allow for optimal airway contour; (4) less harvest site morbidity; and (5) development of composite soft tissue, cutaneous, and/or muscle flaps to repair adjacent defects.