Reconstructive strategies for dermatofibrosarcomas of the face: role of regenerative dermal templates

Abstract

Background: Dermatofibrosarcomas protuberans is a challenging cutaneous tumor from an oncologic and reconstructive surgical point of view. Involvement of functionally and aesthetically sensitive areas, such as facial units, in young patients accounts for more demanding cases. An updated evaluation of most beneficial excisional/reconstructive strategies in these cases is still lacking.

Methods: We investigated the potential of regenerative dermal templates in staged postoncologic reconstructive management of a young woman affected by a dermatofibrosarcomas protuberans of the forehead involving the frontal bone.

Results: Final result was optimal in terms of cosmetic and functional recovery, obtaining a pliability, softness, and color similar to surrounding healthy skin.

Conclusion: In facial dermatofibrosarcomas protuberans, staged reconstruction with regenerative dermal templates provides a conservative yet safe and effective management, achieving optimal aesthetic outcomes. We suggest its adoption as first-line treatment in facial dermatofibrosarcomas protuberans that cannot be repaired by direct suture and in equivalent benign yet challenging cases.

Keywords: conservative treatment; dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans; facial tumors; reconstructive strategies; regenerative dermal template.