Prelaminated Forehead Flap Nasal Reconstruction of Pediatric Nasal Defect Secondary to Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection: A Case Report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64387/tjs.2026.279041Keywords:
Nasal reconstruction, Paramedian forehead flap, paediatric necrotising soft tissue infectionAbstract
Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) in children that involves the nose is a rare presentation and requires serial surgical debridement followed by nasal reconstruction. Nasal reconstruction is often delayed until post-pubertal age due to ongoing facial growth, limited local tissue/donor sites, and poor adherence to post-surgical care. However, the facial defect has a greater psychosocial impact as the child grows.
Case: This case report describes an 8-month-old boy who developed necrotizing fasciitis of the right heminose/cheek following an iatrogenic laceration from a nasal oxygen cannula, which required urgent surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy. We performed a multi-stage reconstruction using a prelaminated forehead flap with a composite concha cartilage and skin graft.
Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis, aggressive treatment, and innovative reconstructive techniques in managing pediatric necrotizing soft tissue infection of the face, particularly in anatomically challenging areas like the nasal region.
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