Surgical outcomes of Tenzel rotational flap in upper and lower lid reconstruction without repair of posterior lamella: A modified approach

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and usefulness of Tenzel rotational flap in upper and lower lid reconstruction in malignant tumors, to determine the anatomical alignment, functional, and cosmetic outcome after lid reconstruction and recurrence of the tumor and to observe the canthal and fornix status. Methods: Prospective, non-comparative,interventional clinical study of 30 patients over a period of 18 months. The study was conducted with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Evaluation parameters were LPS (Levator palpebrae superioris) action Pre and post operative, MRD-1 (Margin Reflex Distance-1) values pre and post operative, central vertical palpebral fissure height (PFH) pre and post operative,and the calculation of the created defect express in percentage preoperatively. None of the case posterior lamina was repaired. It formed or strengthened automatically. Results: The diagnosis of Sebaceous cell carcinoma was 14/30 by FNAC and 17/30 by histopathology. The mean MRD-1 pre-operatively was -1.09 ± 1.54 mm to 4.02 ± 0.36 mm postoperatively in the upper lid. The mean LPS action pre-operatively was 4.35 ± 0.96 mm to 12.42 ± 1.24 mm postoperatively in the upper lid tumor. The mean pre-operative central palpebral aperture was 4.76 ± 0.88 mm and post-operative central palpebral aperture was 10.47 ± 0.88 mm in the upper lid tumor. The mean incision length was 8.16 ± 0.61 mm in upper lid and 9.27 ± 0.87 mm in lower lid Tenzel reconstruction respectively. In all the cases, posterior lamella grew normally. In addition, no strengthening procedure was required. Conclusion: This reconstructive procedure was useful to repair 40%-60% of the upper lid and 40%-70% created a defect in the lower eyelid after the removal of the malignant tumor. Histopathological diagnosis of the specimen was more accurate than FNAC. No repair of posterior lamella was made. No extra surgical procedure was needed. Thus, the surgical procedure time was markedly reduced. After the surgery, all the patients presented a good uplift of the upper lid, good closure of the eyelids, and were visually and functionally well rehabilitated. The aesthetic appearance was excellent.