European Journal of Plastic Surgery, cilt.31, sa.3, ss.147-150, 2008 (SCI-Expanded)
Reconstruction of the subtotal upper lip with a columellar defect is still a problem for reconstructive surgeons. Various techniques have been reported for this purpose. Each technique has its own drawbacks, and few can be performed in one stage. Although Karapandzic describes the standard procedure that functionally reconstructs large defects in the upper and lower lip, the Karapandzic flap is not sufficient for the columellar defects. It is a simple and safe technique; results are satisfactory, functional, and aesthetically well tolerated, sacrifice less tissue, and are effective for repairing defects. We report a 74-year-old male who presented with a large, fungating, pus-discharging ulcerative mass on his upper lip including the columella. Biopsy results confirmed squamous cell carcinoma. The tumor was excised and defects were reconstructed using a simple modification of the Karapandzic flap. This modification of the Karapandzic flap provides adequate tissue for the subtotal upper lip defect including the columellar defect. © 2008 Springer-Verlag.