Rotation flap

Rotation Flap is a surgical technique used in plastic surgery and dermatology to repair skin defects. The procedure involves rotating a section of tissue, known as a flap, from a nearby area to cover the defect. This technique is often used when direct closure of the wound is not possible due to the size or location of the defect.

Procedure

The Rotation Flap procedure begins with the surgeon making an incision around the defect. The incision is extended into a semicircular or curvilinear shape, creating a flap of skin and underlying tissue. This flap is then rotated into the defect and sutured into place. The advantage of this technique is that it allows for the closure of large defects with minimal tension on the wound edges, promoting better healing and reducing the risk of scar formation.

Applications

Rotation flaps are commonly used in the repair of skin defects on the face, particularly around the nose and eyes, where preserving the aesthetic appearance is important. They are also used in the repair of defects on the trunk and extremities, particularly when the defect is large or located in an area with limited skin laxity.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The main advantage of the rotation flap technique is its ability to close large defects with minimal tension on the wound edges. This promotes better healing and reduces the risk of scar formation. However, the technique does require a certain level of surgical skill and experience to perform effectively. It also results in a longer, curvilinear scar, which may be less aesthetically pleasing than a straight-line scar.

See Also

• Skin graft
• Local flap
• Z-plasty
• W-plasty

References

• 
  Rotation flap
• 
  Rotation flap