Logarithmic spiral flap for circular or oval defects on the lateral surface of the nose and nasal ala: a series of 15 cases

Introduction: A large number of flaps, particularly rotation and transposition flaps, have been described for the closure of skin defects left by oncologic surgery of the nose. The logarithmic spiral flap is a variant of the rotation flap.

Materials and methods: We present a series of 15 patients with different types of skin tumor on the nose. The skin defect resulting from excision of the tumor by micrographic surgery was reconstructed using various forms of the logarithmic spiral flap. There are 3 essential aspects to flap design: commencement of the pedicle at the upper or lower border of the wound, a width of the distal end of the flap equal to the vertical diameter of the defect, and a progressive increase in the radius of the spiral from the distal end of the flap to its base.

Results: The cosmetic and functional results of surgical reconstruction were satisfactory, and no patient required additional treatment to improve scar appearance.

Conclusion: The logarithmic spiral flap is useful for the closure of circular or oval defects situated on the lateral surface of the nose and nasal ala. The flap initiates at one of the borders of the wound as a pedicle with a radius that increases progressively to create a spiral. We propose the logarithmic spiral flap as an excellent option for the closure of circular or oval defects of the nose.