Treatment of linear scleroderma “En coup de Sabre” with single-stage autologous fat grafting: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Background: Linear scleroderma “en coups de sabre” is a disease that causes scar-like lesions in the forehead and the scalp, and atrophy of the underlying structures. The result is an acute facial asymmetry that can be distressing to affected young adults. Several surgical treatments are available such as free tissue transfer and synthetic fillers. Aims: In this report, we present a rare case of linear scleroderma “en coups de sabre,” which was successfully managed with single-stage autologous fat grafting. Patients/Methods: The patient was a 17-year-old male who presented with a soft-tissue defect in the left forehead region. Treatment consisted of transferring autologous fat into the defect in a retrograde fashion, as described by Coleman, and overcorrecting the defect to account for fat resorption. Results: At 6 mo postoperatively, the patient had maintained a satisfactory correction of his left forehead and scalp regions with minimal resorption of fat. Conclusion: Autologous fat grafting provides a safe and easy approach for the treatment of linear scleroderma “en coups de sabre”. With minimal manipulation of the aspirated fat, combined with overcorrection of the defect, long-term clinically satisfactory results can be obtained. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.