Purpose
Attempts have been made to achieve better aesthetic, functional and efficient results following locoregional flaps in nasal reconstruction. The Versajet device (Smith & Nephew) is a handheld hydrosurgical tool, that delivers a high-speed jet stream of saline, to precisely debride tissues. It has been demonstrated to be a safe and effective tool in infected wounds, burns and ulcers (1, 2). We present the use of Versajet in debriding and contouring locoregional flaps in nasal reconstruction.
Methodology
Over a 20-month period in a single hospital we reviewed consecutive cases that used the Versajet device in the subsequent stages of their nasal reconstruction surgery for the preparation and sculpting of locoregional flaps.
Results
There were 7 consecutive patients (3 males, 4 females) in whom we utilised Versajet. The majority (71%) of cases were for Basal cell carcinoma with an overall median age of 51 years. All nasal reconstructions used a paramedian forehead flap, that were divided and contoured 3 to 4 weeks later. There was 100% flap survival. A key benefit to using the Versajet device was the precise contouring of the flap to the defect, in a timely and safe manner (Figure 1). Of the 7 cases, one patient required a further revisional procedure.
Conclusion
Our study further adds to the literature in the safe and effective use of the Versajet device in surgical debridement. However, we highlight its benefits in nasal reconstruction that can reduce theatre time, optimise clinical outcomes and reduce further subsequent procedures.