Background: The Cutler-Beard bridge flap technique is an established method for reconstruction of large full thickness upper eyelid defects. The purpose of the present study was to report experiences with the surgical technique, complications and results of this cutaneoconjunctival flap procedure following tumor resection.
Patients and methods: A total of 18 patients with extensive full thickness upper eyelid defects after tumor excision underwent a Cutler-Beard procedure. Of the patients four received an additional eye bank scleral implant and one received an additional free tarsal graft from the fellow upper eyelid to enhance eyelid stability.
Results: The Cutler-Beard bridge flap technique was surgically feasible in all patients without causing damage to the lower eyelid bridge or resulting in any infections. Out of the 13 reconstructions without additional stabilizing tissue 3 (23%) developed an upper eyelid entropion that was successfully managed using a secondary scleral implant. None of the five reconstructions using additional scleral or tarsal tissue showed an entropion of the upper eyelid.
Conclusion: The Cutler-Beard bridge flap technique, which can be combined with grafting additional stabilization tissue in defects exceeding 75% of the upper eyelid length, is a reliable method for reconstruction of large full thickness upper eyelid defects following tumor excision.
Keywords: Basal cell carcinoma; Blepharoplasty; Eyelid neoplasms; Ophthalmic plastic surgery; Transplantation.