Eyebrow and Upper Eyelid Reconstruction With a Double Rhomboid Flap in a Dog.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To describe the surgical technique and case outcome of a double rhomboid flap for reconstruction of an eyebrow and medial upper eyelid defect after tumor excision in a dog. ANIMAL STUDIED: A 2-year-old intact male Golden Retriever was evaluated for a large cutaneous tumor affecting the eyebrow and medial upper eyelid of the right eye. Cytology results were consistent with an epithelial tumor of basilar origin, most likely a trichoblastoma. PROCEDURES: The eyebrow and upper eyelid cutaneous mass was marginally removed under general anesthesia. The area was reconstructed with a double rhomboid flap harvested from the forehead and the glabella region. RESULTS: Histopathology results confirmed the diagnosis of a benign ribbon-type trichoblastoma excised with clean margins (1.2 mm). Transient lagophthalmos of the medial upper eyelid developed post-operatively, with adequate compensation via globe retraction and third eyelid elevation. On final evaluation 3 months after surgery, tumor recurrence was not observed; there was complete resolution of lagophthalmos, and the redirected fur growth pattern did not result in trichiasis. CONCLUSIONS: The double rhomboid flap is an effective technique for surgical reconstruction of large defects in the eyebrow region of canine patients. Lagophthalmos and trichiasis are potential complications of this procedure.