ABSTRACT
Background : Facial dog bite injuries result in significant emotional, psychological, and physical trauma to the victims involved and should be considered a significant health issue. The purpose of this study is to share our experience in the management and to add to the existing medical literature regarding the epidemiological patterns of facial dog bite injuries. Materials and Methods : This is a single-center retrospective observational study conducted at Dr. RML Hospital, New Delhi, from January 2021 to January 2022. A total of 105 patients were included. The wounds were managed according to the recommendations made by the national rabies control program and surgical intervention was performed in the form of primary suturing or flap cover. Results : Children of age group 0 to 10 years are most commonly affected. Pet dogs are the cause in 61% of cases and 57.1% of bites were provoked. Midface is most commonly affected and modified Lackmann's class 3A and 3B are the most common wounds. Conclusion : In view of raising incidence of dog bites with pet dogs, the general public needs to be educated regarding the practices to prevent these injuries. Postexposure prophylaxis should be given to all affected individuals irrespective of the vaccination status of the dog. Immediate surgical intervention gives better results.
ABSTRACT
Background Reconstruction of the auricular margin defects is challenging due to the ear's intricate architecture. Tubed flap raised from the postauricular area is a simple and reliable option for reconstructing marginal defects. Methods Eight patients with various auricular margin defects were reconstructed, using a postauricular tubed flap in a staged manner. Parameters like flap survival, reliability, complications, and cosmesis were assessed. Results Out of eight patients, one patient had marginal necrosis, which was managed with debridement and lengthening of the flap. All the flaps settled well with a good aesthetic outcome. Conclusion Postauricular tubed flap is a reliable and efficient method for reconstructing auricular margin defects.