Scar orientation: Principles in plastic surgery

Abstract

For biopsy proven skin cancers that are deemed to be high risk, a wide local excision (WLE) is recommended to reduce the risk of local recurrence. For this reason, it is pragmatic to account for the likelihood of a WLE at the time of the initial biopsy. We illustrate a staged approach to excision of lesions to facilitate this, bearing in mind the optimal reconstruction is primary closure. In our experience as plastic surgeons, having to perform a locoregional flap or skin graft prevents the opportunity to perform a local anesthetic procedure. This increases the risk of postoperative complications, especially if adjuvant radiotherapy further exposes reconstructed tissues to radiation toxicity. Collectively, this often results in an inferior aesthetic outcome. We value the referrals from allied colleagues and want to share the principles we adhere to when planning an excision biopsy, which aid in the delivery of the optimal reconstruction.

Keywords: Healing; scar; scar orientation; skin cancer.

Figure 1

(A) scar on the arm of patient denoted by +. (B) Transverse orientation of WLE scar and limited skin laxity. (C) Longitudinal orientation and maximal recruitment of circumferential laxity. (D) Healed, longitudinally orientated WLE scar