Use of a caudal auricular axial pattern flap in a dog

A mixed breed dog was presented with a one month history of a slowly growing mass over the dorsal temporal region. Biopsy of the mass indicated a sarcoma of spindle cell origin. Results of blood tests, thoracic radiography and lymph node and bone marrow biopsy confirmed no evidence of metastatic disease. The tumour was removed surgically with 2-3cm margins and a caudal auricular axial pattern flap was utilised to close the deficit. The graft had complete survival. The use of the caudal auricular axial pattern flap is discussed. This is the first reported case in which this flap has been used clinically in the dog.