• J B Kinsella, C H Rassekh, Z D Wassmuth, J A Hokanson, and K H Calhoun.
• Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555-0521, USA.
• Ann Oto Rhinol Laryn. 1999 Feb 1;108(2):139-42.

AbstractThis study was undertaken to determine whether smokers have a higher risk of complications after reconstruction of facial skin defects. Ninety-one patients with facial skin defects reconstructed with local flaps were reviewed retrospectively. Thirty-eight (42%) were active smokers, 12 (13%) had not smoked for at least 1 year prior to surgery, and the rest were nonsmokers. Complications occurred in 23 patients (25%; 37% in smokers, 17% in ex-smokers, and 17% in nonsmokers; p < .03). All full-thickness skin losses and all cellulitis occurred in active smokers. We conclude that active smokers are at a higher risk for complications in facial skin flap surgery. That ex-smokers had a complication rate similar to that of nonsmokers suggests that part of smoking's adverse effect on skin flaps may be an acute phenomenon, and that smoking cessation for shorter (<1 year) periods of time before surgery may have a beneficial effect.

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