A Case of Forehead Flap Nasal Reconstruction for Dog Bite Nasal Injury

Abstract

A dog bite is the most common trauma among animal bites, and it has varying severity, from simple skin lacerations to defects in whole tissue layers. Considering the aesthetic and functional importance of the nose, an appropriate reconstruction should be conducted for large and full-thickness tissue defects. Although this is quite common, literature detailing surgical reconstruction is lacking, especially in domestic journals. A 45-year-old male patient visited an outpatient clinic due to nasal trauma caused by a dog bite. The patient’s nose showed whole-layer tissue defects, with necrotic tissues at the periphery. Nasal reconstruction surgery was conducted using a forehead flap and ear cartilage composite graft. Pedicle division was conducted three weeks after primary surgery. The functional and aesthetic outcomes of the surgery were satisfactory. Our experience demonstrates that the forehead flap is a useful option for reconstructing a nose badly injured by a dog bite.