Year: 2025 | Month: December | Volume: 12 | Issue: 12 | Pages: 254-259
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20251228
Nasolabial Reconstruction with Abbe Flap After Wide Excision of Skin Cancer: A Case Report
Alfred Hamonangan L. Toruan1, Kiki A. Rizki1
1Surgical Oncology Trainee, Medical Faculty of Padjadjaran University Bandung, Indonesia
Corresponding Author: Alfred Hamonangan L. Toruan
ABSTRACT
Background: Nasolabial reconstruction using local flaps is the most used reconstructive technique, but it is dependent on the elasticity of the donor tissue. Larger and deeper defects require mobilization of more and looser donor tissue, so other reconstructive techniques should be considered. The Abbe flap is a lip reconstruction technique commonly used to close cleft lip deformities.
Purpose and objectives: To report a case of a large defect in the nasolabial area and review the Abbe flap method as a nasolabial reconstruction after wide excision of skin cancer.
Methods: A 62-year-old woman presented with an ulcer on the left side of her upper lip. A biopsy revealed basal cell carcinoma. The patient underwent wide excision including oral mucosa and continued with frozen section examination. After the incision margins and base were cleared, the patient underwent reconstruction of the defect with an Abbe flap.
Results: A physical examination on the first postoperative day revealed swelling of the lower and upper lips and a viable flap. The next day the swelling began to reduce, and the patient learned oral intake and oral hygiene. Three weeks after surgery, flap viability was assessed, followed by pedicle excision and multilayer wound suturing.
Conclusion: Reconstruction with the Abbe flap can be used as an alternative to closing large and deep defects in the nasolabial area.
Keywords: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Local Flap, Nasolabial reconstruction
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