Comparative Evaluation of Secondary Intention Healing with Versus Without Local Flap Reconstruction in Cutaneous Surgery: The Predictive Role of Initial Defect Size on Healing Duration

Introduction

Cutaneous surgery requires balancing reconstructive durability with minimal morbidity. While secondary intention healing offers simplicity, expansive defects face prolonged recovery. Combining secondary intention with local flaps optimizes healing, yet the precise predictive role of initial defect size remains underexplored. This prospective study evaluates secondary intention healing with versus without local flap reconstruction, investigating how initial defect size predicts healing duration. Material and methods: This prospective, randomized, single-blind clinical trial at Sina Hospital evaluated twenty surgical patients (n=20) allocated equally into secondary intention healing alone versus combined local flap reconstruction. Participants were selected via convenience sampling based on strict eligibility criteria. Evaluated variables included baseline defect size, serial wound reduction kinetics measured planimetrically across twelve postoperative weeks, complete healing milestones, and postoperative pain intensity.