Use of the lip-to-lid flap for replacement of the lower eyelid in five cats.

OBJECTIVE

To report outcomes after reconstruction of the lower eyelid following resection of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

ANIMALS

Five cats (6 eyelids).

METHODS

Case records were reviewed for breed, sex, surgical findings, complications, and outcome.

RESULTS

Six eyelids were reconstructed in 5 cats; functional outcome was excellent. Neither wound breakdown nor flap failure occurred. An area of superficial necrosis occurred in 1 cat; this spared the eyelid margin and healed by secondary intention without any cosmetic or functional effect. One cat was euthanatized 18 months later because of a nasal mass. The relationship between the nasal mass and the previously excised SCC was not established.

CONCLUSIONS

Reconstruction of the lower eyelid using a lip-to-lid flap yields satisfactory functional and cosmetic results in cats.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A lip to lid flap is a successful form of single-stage reconstruction after lower eyelid excision in cats.