Applicability of buccal fat pad grafting for oral reconstruction

Systematic review of minimally-invasive reconstructive options for oral cavity defects

The oral cavity is a primary site for malignant neoplasms of the head and neck region. Surgery, with or without adjuvant therapy, offers the highest probability of cure by focusing on radical tumour removal and organ function restoration. Reconstructive options are represented by local and free flaps, while small defects can be managed without reconstruction. For medium-sized defects without bone involvement, local flaps can be a good alternative to free flaps in selected patients. The purposes of this article are to analyse the main minimally-invasive reconstructive techniques in oral cancer surgery through a systematic review of the literature and develop a reconstructive algorithm based on the site and size of the defect. We defined minimally-invasive reconstruction as any reconstructive option not involving flap dissection from the neck or other distant areas from the oral cavity. Options considered include: local myo-mucosal or mucosal flaps (based on the facial or buccal arteries, and palatal flap), Bichat’s fat pad flap, and nasolabial flap. Use of biological or synthetic materials is also described. In selected patients with small to moderate-sized defects, the possibility of reconstruction with local flaps can be a viable option.

Submalar fat pad removal for esthetic purposes: A systematic approach

OBJECTIVE

Submalar fat pad removal for esthetic purposes has been performed as a routine in the last decades. However, several factors have not been properly analyzed and studied. In order to address this problem, the purpose of this study is to describe clinical parameters to be taken into account when analyzing potential patients as well as a systematic approach during the pre, intra and postoperative stages.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients complaining of cheek fullness were evaluated to determine if they were good candidates for the procedure. Eligible patients underwent the same patient selection criteria and pre, intra and post-surgical protocol.

RESULTS

A total of 44 patients were selected. 40 females and 4 males, with a mean age of 25.4 years. The bilaterally excised buccal fat pads had an average weight of 4.3 gs. There was only 1 complication (unilateral emphysema), during the immediate postoperative phase.

CONCLUSIONS

Submalar fat pad removal is an effective technique for refining the facial silhouette that should be reserved only for patients with increased buccal fat pad volume or its pseudoherniation. Performing the surgery following the protocol established in our study can allow the surgeon to achieve more reliable intra and postoperative outcomes.

Full-Thickness Oral Mucoperiosteal Defects: Challenges and Opportunities

Regenerative engineering strategies for the oral mucoperiosteum, as may be needed following surgeries, such as cleft palate repair and tumor resection, are underdeveloped compared with those for maxillofacial bone. However, critical-size tissue defects left to heal by secondary intention can lead to complications, such as infection, fistula formation, scarring, and midface hypoplasia. This review describes current clinical practice for replacing mucoperiosteal tissue, including autografts and allografts. Potentially paradigm-shifting experimental regenerative engineering strategies for mucoperiosteal wound healing, such as hybrid grafts and engineered matrices, are also discussed. Throughout the review, the advantages and disadvantages of each replacement or regeneration strategy are outlined in the context of clinical outcomes, quality of life for the patient, availability of materials, and cost of care. Finally, future directions for research and development in the area of mucoperiosteum repair are proposed, with an emphasis on identifying globally available and affordable solutions for promoting mucoperiosteal regeneration. Impact statement Unassisted oral mucoperiosteal wound healing can lead to severe complications such as infection, fistulae, scarring, and developmental abnormalities. Thus, strategies for promoting wound healing must be considered when mucoperiosteal defects are incident to oral surgery, as in palatoplasty or tumor resection. Emerging mucoperiosteal tissue engineering strategies, described in this study, have the potential to overcome the limitations of current standard-of-care donor tissue grafts. For example, the use of engineered mucoperiosteal biomaterials could circumvent concerns about tissue availability and immunogenicity. Moreover, employment of tissue engineering strategies may improve the equity of oral wound care by increasing global affordability and accessibility of materials.

Surgical treatment of 61 consecutive patients with maxillary stage 3 medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws using a pedicled buccal fat pad

PURPOSE

Buccal fat pad (BFP) is used for the closure of large oroantral defects caused by surgical removal of the necrotic bone in patients with medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). This study aimed to evaluate the use of BFP for the closure of maxillary sinus defects in stage 3 MRONJ patients.

METHODS

This study recruited 61patients with large oroantral defects caused by MRONJ, including 49 patients with cancer and 12 patients with osteoporosis. Lesions were evaluated clinically and radiographically.

RESULTS

Among the 61 patients, 51 (83.6%) healed uneventfully, and 5 patients (8.2%) had local dehiscence and exposed bone; these 56 patients (91.8%) all healed after first or second operation. The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status was associated with being non-cured and might be an indicator for the healing process. All patients experienced a significant increase in body weight postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggest that block resection with removal of the necrotic bone combined with radical sinusotomy and closure of the defect with BFP is a reliable method to cure MRONJ lesions with a high success rate, and successful operation and prosthetic rehabilitation may improve body weight and the quality of life. The study was approved by the appropriate ethical approval for the Copenhagen ONJ Cohort (protocol no. H-6-2013-010) November 20, 2013.

The use of a pedicled buccal fat pad for reconstruction of posterior mandibular defects

Background

The pedicled buccal fat pad has been used for a long time to reconstruct oral defects due to its ease of flap formation and few complications. Many cases related to reconstruction of defects in the maxilla, such as closing the oroantral fistula, have been reported, but cases related to the reconstruction of defects in the mandible are limited. Under adequate anterior traction, pedicled buccal fat pad can be a reliable and effective method for reconstruction of surgical defects in the posterior mandible.

Case presentation

This study describes two cases of reconstruction of surgical oral defects in the posterior mandible, all of which were covered by a pedicled buccal fat pad. The size of the flap was sufficient to perfectly close the defect without any tension. Photographic and radiologic imaging showed successful closure of the defects and no problems were noted in the treated area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the pedicled buccal fat pad graft is a convenient and reliable method for the reconstruction of surgical defects on the posterior mandible.

Long-Term Outcomes of Zygomaticomaxillary Reconstruction With Autologous Bone Grafts Supported by Pedicled Buccal Fat Pad Flap

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the pedicle buccal fat pad flap combined with autogenous bone grafts to reconstruct zygomaticomaxillary defects after tumor resection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective case series analysis of 11 patients that underwent zygomaticomaxillary reconstruction after tumor resection with autologous bone grafts supported by pedicle buccal fat pad flap as the lining of the maxillary sinus from January 2009 to December 2015 was performed. All the patients underwent computed tomography to measure the aesthetic appearance, bone graft formation, mucosa of the maxillary sinus, and their response to treatment, including complications.

RESULTS

With a mean follow-up period of 4.7 years, all patients were pleased with the symmetrical contours of zygomaticomaxillary and symptom improvements of the maxillary sinus except for one patient who complained of transient infraorbital numbness. Recurrence, bone infection or necrosis, and other complications were not observed in the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Pedicled buccal fat pad flap promotes wound healing and prevents the exposure of bone grafts to the maxillary sinus. This technique may be a promising treatment option when reconstructing complicated zygomaticomaxillary defects.

Improving pulp revascularization outcomes with buccal fat autotransplantation

Several techniques have been introduced to improve the pulp revascularization outcomes. The use of the tissue graft can create more practical tissue regeneration, provide vascular supply, and enhance tissue healing. The aim of the present study was to investigate the histologic and molecular outcomes of pulp revascularization with buccal fat autotransplantation. Fifty-six open apex roots from four dogs aged 4-6 months were randomly allocated to five groups of endodontic regeneration models: Group 1 (negative control, n = 4); Group 2 (control and without intervention, n = 4); Group 3 (blood clot, n = 16); Group 4 (buccal fat autotransplantation, n = 16); and Group 5 (blood clot plus buccal fat autotransplantation, n = 16). After 3 months, the extracted dog teeth were analyzed by histological and immunohistochemical techniques. Furthermore, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions were implemented to assess the gene expression profiles of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentin matrix protein (DMP), collagen I (COL1), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) on regenerated tissue in the root canals. There were no significant differences in the severity of inflammation and necrosis between intervention groups. Immunohistochemical analysis showed significant differences among the study groups in expression level of extracellular glycoproteins such as fibronectin, laminin, and tenascin C. Group 5 showed an increase in the expression of DMP1 and COL1 genes. The expression of DSPP gene increased significantly in Group 4. The expression of ALP gene increased significantly in Group 3. Using this procedure may open new fields of research for regenerative endodontic procedure in which tissue autotransplant, particularly adipose tissue, may improve the outcomes of pulp revascularization.

Clinical Application of the Pedicled Buccal Fat Pad Flap in Immediate Reconstruction of Oral Tissue Defects in Oral Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to present a new immediate reconstructive option for oral tissue defects with a pedicled buccal fat pad flap in oral surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifteen cases (10 males, 5 females; mean age: 50 years) suffering from oral tumor and attending the Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Kunming Medical University were included in this study. All patients underwent immediate repair surgery involving a pedicled buccal fat pad graft in oral surgery, from July 2013 to August 2016.

RESULTS

All cases underwent uneventful healing with a surviving graft flap. The buccal fat pad healed in about 9 to 10 weeks and its uncovered surface became epithelialized with similar feature to the normal mucosa. At a follow-up of 3 months to 3 years, a good outcome was obtained with minimal malfunction and face deformity.

CONCLUSIONS

The pedicled buccal fat pad is ideal material for repair, and it is a viable option for immediate reconstruction of oral tissue defects in oral surgery.

Buccal Fat Pad: An Effective Option for Facial Reconstruction and Aesthetic Augmentation

INTRODUCTION

Autogenous grafting with lipoaspirate and dermo-fat grafting are popular techniques employed by plastic surgeons for correcting small volume facial defects and contour deformities. These techniques however present certain disadvantages. In this article, we present the use of the buccal fat pad graft as an alternative method of correcting such facial deformities.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Free buccal fat pad grafting was carried out in 15 patients in our institution. All were harvested using an intraoral approach. The buccal fat pad graft was used to correct periorbital contour depressions, nasal tip deformities, as a camouflage graft over exposed silicon nasal implants and as a filler in the depression deformity after mass excision.

RESULTS

All 15 patients demonstrated good contour deformity correction without a significant graft resorption up to 3 years of follow-up. There were no donor site complications. The amount used ranged from 1 to 5 cc in volume as a spacer or barrier for the moderate-sized volume defect or depression, even though more than 5 cc of fat graft could be harvested if required.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the buccal fat pad graft represents an easy, expedient and exceptional tool for the correction of contour deformities, volume replacement or for aesthetic augmentation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

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The use of the buccal fat pad flap for oral reconstruction

Many congenital and acquired defects occur in the maxillofacial area. The buccal fat pad flap (BFP) is a simple and reliable flap for the treatment of many of these defects because of its rich blood supply and location, which is close to the location of various intraoral defects. In this article, we have reviewed BFP and the associated anatomical background, surgical techniques, and clinical applications. The surgical procedure is simple and has shown a high success rate in various clinical applications (approximately 90%), including the closure of oroantral fistula, correction of congenital defect, treatment of jaw bone necrosis, and reconstruction of tumor defects. The control of etiologic factors, size of defect, anatomical location of defect, and general condition of patient could influence the prognosis after grafting. In conclusion, BFP is a reliable flap that can be applied to various clinical situations.

Use of Pedicled Buccal Fat Pad for Cranial Base Reconstruction

Craniofacial reconstruction for closure of skull base defects after removal of anterior cranial base lesions is challenging. Persistent skull base defect produces extremely high risk of cerebrospinal fluid leaks and consecutive infectious complications. The authors' article focuses on the use of pedicled buccal fat pad for the reconstruction of anterior cranial base defects using combined endoscope-assisted approach and Lefort I access osteotomy. High effectiveness and minimal invasiveness are principal advantages of the technique. Other benefits include proximity of donor site to defect, simplicity of surgical technique, minimal postoperative discomfort, and very low risk of benign complications. Local pedicled grafts are the preferred material for plasty, adding aesthetic results in an ablative surgery using intraoral incision and access osteotomy. Thus, the technique solves the problem of relying on complex alloplastic reconstruction of anterior craniobasal defects.

Non-Pedicled Buccal Fat Pad Grafts to Treatment for Class I and II Gingival Recessions: A Clinical Trial

The aim of this study was to analyze the transplant efficiency of non-pedicled buccal fat pad graft (BFPG) for the treatment of Miller Class I or II gingival recessions (GRs) and to compare these results with those of subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG), which is considered the gold standard. Twelve patients with Miller Class I or II (≥2 mm) bilateral recessions in maxillary premolars or canines were selected. Recessions were randomly assigned to receive SCTG or BFPG. The clinical parameters evaluated at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively included gingival index, plaque index, probing depth, GR, clinical attachment level, width of keratinized tissue, thickness of keratinized tissue and gingival margin to the acrylic guide. None of the evaluated clinical parameters differed significantly between the groups. At all evaluated postoperative time-points, both groups exhibited statistically significant differences in GR and gingival margin to the acrylic guide compared to baseline. Six months after surgery, the mean percentages of root coverage were 67.5% and 87.5% in the BFPG and SCTG groups respectively. In both groups, complete root coverage was observed in 50% of cases 6 months after surgery. The results presented herein indicate that the use of BFPG transplant has clinical similarities with SCTG and both may be considered as clinically successful methods for treating Miller Class I and II GRs.

Odontogenic sinusitis, oro-antral fistula and surgical repair by Bichat's fat pad: Literature review

Odontogenic sinusitis accounts for 10-12% of maxillary sinusitis. It occurs due to an interruption of the mucoperiosteum in response to a series of conditions, most frequently the extraction of a superior tooth. Its treatment has two bases: treating the infection and managing the oroantral fistula that perpetuates the infection. Communications smaller than 5mm can resolve spontaneously; bigger ones must be closed by a flap. Bichat's fat pad flap was first used in 1977 to close an oroantral fistula. It is a pedicled flap that has been shown to be successful, with advantages that make it the best option in oroantral fistula treatment. Its location allows easy access, minimum dissection, great versatility, good mobility, good blood supply, low rate of complications, no morbidity in the donor site, low risk of infection, shortened surgical time and fast cover by epithelium, and it leaves no visible scar, amongst other benefits. That is why we encourage the use of this technique and choose it as the best option for management of our patients.

Use of the buccal fat pad as free graft for closure of oronasal fistula in a cleft palate patient

Oronasal fistulas are frequent complications after cleft lip and palate surgery, with difficult treatment because of the presence of fibrotic and scarred tissue as well as the absence of local virgin tissue, representing a challenge in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The size of the fistula, its location, and the cause of the defect are important factors to determine the type of treatment and surgical technique. The use of pedicled buccal fat pad (BFP) for the repair of cleft palate has shown promising results, becoming a safe and effective method. On the other hand, the use of BFP as a free graft for oral defects has been rarely described in the literature. The current study is the first case report that shows the use of free graft of BFP in oronasal fistula after cleft lip and palate surgery and aimed to discuss the promising results of this surgical technique, suggesting it as a treatment option for anterior maxillary defects, when properly indicated.

Surgical treatment of bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis: Prognostic score and long-term results

Over a century after the first synthesis of bisphosphonates (1897) and a decade (2003) since the initial report on bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), this osteopathy remains a serious clinical challenge. A single center longitudinal study (2005-2014) was carried out to prospectively characterize inpatients with manifest ONJ and to evaluate their outcomes. The data recorded were: medical history, bisphosphonate treatment, localization, imaging, treatment, histomorphological features, and complications. A prognostic score (modified UCONN-Score) was adopted to predict outcomes. Eighty patients were included (mean age 69.4 years; 40 male, 40 female). Breast cancer (n = 25), multiple myeloma (n = 16), and prostate cancer (n = 15) were the three most common malignancies; and cardiovascular disease (n = 31), diabetes mellitus (16), and renal disorders (6) were the most important comorbidities. The severity of ONJ was stage I in three patients, stage II in 37, and stage III in 40, being predominantly localized in the posterior mandible and needing gradual resection. The average duration of bisphosphonate treatment was 38.3 months. The typical histological aspects of ONJ were predominantly osteonecrosis, bone marrow fibrosis, and bacterial colonization (Actinomyces) with suppurative inflammation. Within the resected jawbone a primary malignancy was diagnosed in two cases. The overall success rate was 83.6% (follow-up 23.5 months), with a UCONN-Score ≥15 predicting unfavorable treatment results (OR = 5.2). The past decade has enhanced experience with ONJ treatment and knowledge about its pathogenesis, which seems to be a multistep process. This study demonstrates the importance of bone and multilayer soft tissue management, preferably as an early intervention. The UCONN-Score might help to assess individual prognosis in ONJ surgery and the potential benefit of an antiresorptive drug holiday. To our knowledge it is the first use of a prognostic score in ONJ surgery.

Lateral Oropharyngeal Wall Coverage with Buccinator Myomucosal and Buccal Fat Pad Flaps

Background

Reconstruction of oropharyngeal defects after resection of oropharyngeal cancer is a significant challenge. The purpose of this study is to introduce reconstruction using a combination of a buccinator myomucosal flap and a buccal fat pad flap after cancer excision and to discuss the associated anatomy, surgical procedure, and clinical applications.

Methods

In our study, a combination of a buccinator myomucosal flap with a buccal fat pad flap was utilized for reconstruction after resection of oropharyngeal cancer, performed between 2013 and 2015. After oropharyngectomy, the defect with exposed vital structures was noted. A buccinator myomucosal flap was designed and elevated after an assessment of the flap pedicle. Without requiring an additional procedure, a buccal fat pad flap was easily harvested in the same field and gently pulled to obtain sufficient volume. The flaps were rotated and covered the defect. In addition, using cadaver dissections, we investigated the feasibility of transposing the flaps into the lateral oropharyngeal defect.

Results

The reconstruction was performed in patients with squamous cell carcinoma. The largest tumor size was 5 cm×2 cm (length×width). All donor sites were closed primarily. The flaps were completely epithelialized after four weeks, and the patients were followed up for at least six months. There were no flap failures or postoperative wound complications. All patients were without dietary restrictions, and no patient had problems related to mouth opening, swallowing, or speech.

Conclusions

A buccinator myomucosal flap with a buccal fat pad flap is a reliable and valuable option in the reconstruction of oropharyngeal defects after cancer resection for maintaining functionality.

Double-layered closure of chronic oroantral fistulas using a palatal rotational flap and suturing of the sinus membrane perforation: is it a successful technique?

PURPOSE

Chronic oroantral fistulas (OAFs) are a challenging problem in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and the treatment success rate of OAFs is as low as 67%. Thus, the double-layered closure has been described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the simplicity and effectiveness of using a palatal rotational flap and suturing of the sinus membrane perforation as a new technique for double-layered closure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective case series study was performed in patients who had chronic OAFs and were treated at Al-Zahraa Hospital from 2010 to 2013. The following demographic and clinical data were collected: age, gender, location of defect, size, etiology, signs and symptoms, postoperative healing, and complications. Under local anesthesia, fistulectomy and sinus irrigation were performed to control sinusitis. Under general anesthesia, the oral side of the fistulous tract was sutured with a purse suture. A palatal flap was reflected and sutured to the buccal tissue.

RESULTS

Twelve patients 19 to 51 years old were enrolled in this study. All patients tolerated the surgical procedures; all surgical wounds healed uneventfully without recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Double-layered closure of OAFs is a straightforward, convenient, and successful technique that provides stable, strong, and double-sealed closure of chronic OAFs.

Use of the buccal fat pad in the immediate reconstruction of palatal defects related to cancer surgery with postoperative radiation therapy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the use of the buccal fat pad (BFP) in the immediate reconstruction of oncologic palate defects and the influence of postoperative radiotherapy on reconstruction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients who were diagnosed with moderate- to high-grade malignancies of the palate underwent partial maxillectomy. The BFP was used as a pedicled flap to reconstruct the defects. All patients received postoperative radiotherapy 4 to 5 weeks after surgery.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients (9 men and 9 women; age range, 37 to 81 yr) underwent surgery and subsequent radiotherapy. The size of all defects ranged from 7.5 to 19.2 cm2. Adequate closure of the defects was achieved during surgery and all flaps were epithelialized within 3 weeks after surgery, with no complications of dehiscence or flap failure. Furthermore, there were no complications derived from postoperative radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that BFP grafting is an effective and reliable method for the reconstruction of small to medium-size palate defects. Furthermore, postoperative radiotherapy does not influence the success of reconstruction.