dog-ear
An unwanted cone-shaped protrusion of excess tissue at the end of a linear surgical closure.
Full Definition
A dog-ear is a common complication in dermatologic surgery characterized by a triangular or cone-shaped elevation of redundant tissue that forms at one or both ends of a linear wound closure. This occurs when there is unequal tissue distribution or when closing elliptical excisions with inadequate length-to-width ratios. Dog-ears create cosmetically unacceptable results and may cause patient discomfort. Prevention involves proper surgical planning with appropriate excision design, typically maintaining a 3:1 to 4:1 length-to-width ratio. When dog-ears occur, they require revision through techniques such as M-plasty, S-plasty, or simple excision and re-closure.
Usage
Usage note: Use hyphenated form 'dog-ear' as both noun and adjective (dog-ear formation, dog-ear revision).
In Context
- "A small dog-ear at the superior aspect of the closure was revised using an M-plasty technique." — Operative report
- "Proper ellipse design with a 4:1 ratio prevents dog-ear formation during linear closures." — Surgical education material