Background: Traditionally, the columella can be difficult to reconstruct because of its unique contours, paucity of adjacent soft tissues, and tenuous vascularity. When local or regional tissues are unavailable, microsurgical transfer can provide a means for reconstruction. In this retrospective review, the authors report their experience with microsurgical reconstruction of the columella.
Methods: Seventeen patients were enrolled in this study and divided into two groups: group 1, isolated columella defects; and group 2, defects of the columella and portions of adjacent soft tissues.
Results: There were 10 patients in group 1. Their average age was 41.2 years. Average follow-up was 10.1 years. Causes of the columellar defects included trauma, complication of nasal reconstruction, and complication of rhinoplasty. The first dorsal metacarpal artery flap was used in seven cases, and the radial forearm flap was used in five. Two flap losses were salvaged with a second free flap. The average number of surgical revisions was 1.5. In group 2, there were seven patients with an average follow-up of 10.1 years. Causes of the columella defects included cocaine injury, carcinoma, and complication of rhinoplasty. The average number of surgical revisions was 3.3. The radial forearm flap was used in all cases. There were no flap losses. All 17 cases in this series were brought to a successful conclusion.
Conclusions: The authors' experience shows that microsurgical reconstruction of the columella provides a reliable and aesthetic means for reconstruction. This technique avoids the facial disfigurement and visible scarring that often accompany use of local flaps. In addition, microsurgical flaps can be preformed "off site," which may provide certain advantages in selected cases.
Clinical question/level of evidence: Therapeutic, IV.
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