Repair of the alar groove with combination partial primary closure and second-intention healing.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The reconstruction of small defects of the alar groove can be a unique challenge owing to the importance of maintaining its concave structure.

OBJECTIVE:

To present a report of a patient with a small alar groove defect that was repaired using a combination of partial primary closure and second-intention healing.

METHODS:

A 73-year-old female was referred for the treatment of a basal cell carcinoma of the right nasal ala and underwent Mohs micrographic surgery with clearance of the lesion. The final defect, less than 1 cm, extended to the subcutaneous fat. Two absorbable subcutaneous sutures were placed in the defect, and the wound was then allowed to heal by second intention. RESULTS. This closure yielded a good cosmetic result, with preservation of the alar groove.

CONCLUSION:

A combination of primary closure and second-intention healing is a time-efficient, low-risk option for nonperforating, small alar groove defects.

• Authors: Michelle A Pipitone, Hugh M Gloster Jr
• Journal: Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (Dermatol Surg) Vol. 31 Issue 5 Pg. 608-9 (May 2005) ISSN: 1076-0512 [Print] United States
• PMID: 15962754 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Aged
• Carcinoma, Basal Cell (pathology, surgery)
• Female
• Humans
• Mohs Surgery (methods)
• Skin Neoplasms (pathology, surgery)
• Wound Healing