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CC-BY 4.0 · Surg J (N Y) 2018; 04(02): e55-e61
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1639581
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Comprehensive Algorithm for Nasal Ala Reconstruction: Utility of the Auricular Composite Graft

Collin Chen
1   Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University in Saint Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
,
Ruchin Patel
1   Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University in Saint Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
,
John Chi
1   Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University in Saint Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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Publication History

01 November 2017

19 February 2018

Publication Date:
18 April 2018 (online)

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Abstract

Defects of the nasal ala are challenging to reconstruct, given its complex three-dimensional structure. Successful repair of these defects needs to provide aesthetic symmetry and preserve nasal function. A wide variety of reconstructive options have been described for nasal ala defects, ranging from skin grafts to locoregional flaps, and also includes the auricular composite graft. However, there are currently no comprehensive guidelines for nasal ala repair, and the versatile role of the auricular composite graft has not been well defined. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive algorithm to guide repair of nasal ala defects. Additionally, we compare our experience using the auricular composite graft with the available literature to better define its utility in nasal ala repair.

Keywords

nasal ala - nasal reconstruction - composite graft - locoregional flap - facial reconstruction