Series spiral advancement flap: An alternative to the ellipse

BACKGROUND. Surgical excision of skin lesions is a common dermatologic proc edure. OBJECTIVE. An alternative to the elliptical excision is described. METHODS. We present an excisional technique that creates a series of nonepi dermal outwardly spiraling flaps. The surgical defect is closed with specia lly tunneled absorbable suture. RESULTS. There has been no increase in infectious complications or wound fa ilures compared with standard ellipses. Proper patient and lesion selection aids in obtaining an acceptable outcome. CONCLUSION. The series spiral advancement flap has the potential to become a useful and common surgical technique.