Total lower eyelid reconstruction with a prefabricated flap using auricular cartilage

J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2008 Mar;36(2):59-65. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2007.08.005. Epub 2008 Feb 6.

Abstract

Introduction: Various methods have been reported for reconstructing the lower eyelid, but there is still the problem of creating a deep fornix and a supportive eyelid for housing an artificial eye.

Case report: A new prefabricated flap was developed using auricular cartilage and the lateral femoral circumflex vessels as vascular pedicles. This was applied in a 64-year-old male patient with total lower eyelid loss following an extended maxillectomy for tumour.

Conclusion: The prefabricated flap described here showed more flexibility and a longer vascular pedicle, thus improving the applications for use in patients with limited recipient vessels yet without major sacrifice or deformity in the donor area.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Blepharoplasty / methods*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery
  • Ear Cartilage / blood supply*
  • Ear Cartilage / transplantation*
  • Eye Enucleation
  • Eye, Artificial
  • Eyelids / injuries
  • Eyelids / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Maxillary Neoplasms / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Oral Surgical Procedures / adverse effects
  • Orbital Implants
  • Rectus Abdominis / transplantation
  • Surgical Flaps / blood supply*