Comparative evaluation of nasolabial flap and buccal fat pad flap in the surgical management of oral submucous fibrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic, potentially malignant condition affecting any part of the oral cavity and is prevalent in Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of buccal fat pad flap with the nasolabial flap in the management of OSMF.

METHODS

We systematically compared two commonly used constructive techniques in the management of OSMF: the buccal pad of fat flap and the nasolabial flap. We performed a comprehensive search in four databases for all articles published between 1982 and November 2021. We assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Handbook and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We used the mean difference (MD) for pooling the data with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and evaluated the heterogeneity between pooled studies using χ2 and I2 tests.

RESULTS

Out of 917 studies, six were included in this review. The meta-analysis significantly favored conventional nasolabial flap over buccal fat pad flap in improving the maximal mouth opening (MD, - 2.52; 95% CI, - 4.44 to - 0.60; P = 0.01; I2 = 0%) after OSMF reconstructive surgery. Conversely, when it comes to esthetic outcomes, these studies favored buccal fat pad flap.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis found that nasolabial flap was better than buccal fat pad flap in terms of mouth opening restoration after OSMF reconstructive surgery. Also, the included studies found better results, favoring nasolabial flap over buccal fat pad flap in terms of oral commissural width restoration. Also, these studies reported better outcomes in terms of esthetics, favoring buccal fat pad flap. Further studies with larger sample sizes and different populations/races are needed to confirm our findings.

Reconstructive Options for Basal Cell Carcinoma Defects in the Head and Neck Region: An Institutional Experience

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer with more than 80% occurring on the face occurring mainly due to exposure to ultraviolet rays in the elderly due to cumulative exposure of the UV rays during their lifetime. Though various treatment modalities are available for the treatment of basal cell carcinomas, wide local excision is the standard line of management. However, reconstruction of facial BCC poses a challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Over a 4-year-old period from 2017 to 2021, a total of 30 patients of head and neck basal cell carcinoma were surgically excised in our institution. We have explored all modes of reconstruction from small to large BCC defects in terms of cosmesis, form and function. Four patients underwent primary closure, 8 patients underwent skin grafting, 13 patients underwent closure by local and advancement flaps and 5 patients with large defects underwent free flap reconstruction. No flap loss was reported. None reported any functional deficit. To achieve adequate aesthetic surgical outcomes after reconstruction, knowledge of facial aesthetic regions is of utmost importance. The size and location of the defect and the presence of vital structures adjacent to the defect should be assessed to determine the kind of reconstruction that should be carried out without adversely affecting adjacent structures. For greater patient satisfaction, the method of reconstruction should be tailor made, where donor tissue resembles native tissue with good contour and texture match, suture line scars are camouflaged, and complications are nil.

Comparative Evaluation of Nasolabial Flap, Buccal Fat Pad and Platysma Myocutaneous Flap for Reconstruction of Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis Defects

Moderately advanced (stage III) and advanced (stage IV a & b) OSMF requires surgical intervention for management A number of options are available for reconstruction of post OSMF oral cavity defects. In our study we retrospectively compared buccal fat pad, nasolabial flap and platysma flap for reconstruction of the buccal mucosal defects. Patient records were obtained from the medical records section of the Institute and divided into three groups; group A (buccal fat pad), group B (nasolabial group) and group C (platysma flap). Maximal mouth opening and intercommisural distance were the primary outcomes. Kruskal Wallis test was used to test the mean difference between three groups. Mann-Whitney test was used for intergroup comparisons. Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to evaluate the mean difference in outcomes at each follow up interval. A p value of < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant at 95% confidence interval. After 1 year follow up patients in platysma group had significantly better mouth opening (39.84 ± 1.65 mm) compared to both buccal fat pad (36.69 ± 3.41 mm) and nasolabial groups (37.94 ± 0.43 mm). Inter commisural distance was significantly better in patients reconstructed with platysma flap (59.21 ± 0.99 mm) compared to both buccal fat pad (54.11 ± 1 mm) and nasolabial flap (56.84 ± 1.48 mm). Platysma flap lead to significantly better maximal mouth opening compared to both nasolabial and buccal fat pad. Both buccal fat pad and nasolabial lead to comparable mouth opening. Inter commissural distance is maximum with platysma flap followed by nasolabial flap and buccal fat pad.

Management of Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis Using Three Different Flaps: Superficial Temporal, Nasolabial Flap, Buccal Fat Pad Flap Along with Active Physiotherapy- A Comparative Study

To assess the efficacy of different flaps along with active physiotherapy for comprehensive management of OSMF. A total of 33 patients of oral submucous fibrosis were admitted and surgically treated. All patients were diagnosed with bilateral oral submucous fibrosis of buccal mucosa. All the patients had advanced oral sub mucous fibrosis with interincisal distance less than 20 mm. Eleven patients were treated with buccal pad of fat, eleven with nasolabial flap and eleven patients were treated with temporo-parietal fascia flap. Physiotherapy was started from the 5th postoperative day and the patients were followed regularly for one year to measure maximum interincisal distance. There was a significant corelation between post-operative mouth opening and regular physiotherapy, exercise and quitting of the habit irrespective of type of reconstruction flap used. On the basis of the result obtained from this study, significant improvement in mouth opening was seen in patients who performed aggressive physiotherapy irrespective of the flap used. Thus we conclude along with the surgical treatment, post-operative physiotherapy and cessation of habit are of equal importance for good prognosis in OSMF patients.

Utility of Single-Stage Nasolabial Flap Reconstruction for Oral Cavity Defects Following Surgery for Oral Cancers and Premalignant Lesions: A Clinical Audit

An inferiorly based nasolabial flap (NLF) is a versatile flap for various oral cavity defects. However, it generally necessitates a second stage procedure to release the base at 3 weeks following the initial surgery. Reconstruction for oral cavity defects can be done with the inferiorly based nasolabial flap as a single-stage procedure. In this retrospective clinical audit, we analyzed patients who underwent an inferiorly based NLF reconstruction for oral cavity defect from January 2016 to September 2021. We analyzed the various defects for which this flap was used along with the associated complications and the safety of performing this flap in terms of its flap-related complications and the histopathological features such as margins. Forty-four patients underwent this inferiorly based single-stage NLF. The median age of the patients in the cohort was 56 years, with the majority being men (n = 38, 86.4%). Buccal mucosa and lip were the most common sites of the primary. Twenty-nine patients were per primam and 15 were recurrent cancers. Most had T1 (n = 14, 31.8%) and T2 (n = 19, 43.2%) cancers. The median closest margin was 6 mm and the base was 7 mm. There were no flap losses; however, 6 patients had minor wound breakdown for which secondary suturing was needed. Single-stage NLF is a safe flap that could be considered in select patients for appropriate oral cavity defects.

Nasolabial Flap in the Management of Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis: A Series of Cases

The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of the nasolabial flap in the management of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). The descriptive case series included 75 patients diagnosed with OSMF who underwent surgical intervention under general anesthesia. Preoperative mouth opening measurements were compared with postoperative measurements taken after 2 months. Regarding mouth opening, out of the 75 patients, 4 (5.3%) had unsatisfactory results after treatment, while 22 (29.3%) experienced satisfactory outcomes. The majority of patients, 49 (65.3%), achieved normal mouth opening (more than 30 mm) following the Nasolabial flap procedure. This indicates that the Nasolabial flap yielded favorable results in terms of restoring normal mouth opening and benefiting the patients. Based on the findings of this study, the Nasolabial flap was determined to be a viable surgical option for managing oral submucous fibrosis due to its ease of operation, reliable flap vascularity, and low post-operative complication rate. The only drawback identified was the presence of a surgical scar, which can be addressed through secondary correction procedures.

Local Random Pattern and Axial Flaps for Reconstruction of Nasal Surgical Defects: Retrospective Analysis with an Attempt to Inspire ENT Surgeons

Aim: Reconstruction of the surgical defects of the external nose has been challenging and largely considered to be the domain of plastic reconstructive surgeons. The present study aims to share our experience in reconstructing such defects. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of 11 patients who underwent external nasal reconstruction secondary to surgical defect at our otolaryngology department in a tertiary care hospital from 2017 to 2019 was done. All the patients underwent surgical excision of a part of the external nasal dorsum followed by reconstruction by our team of otolaryngology surgeons using local random pattern/ axial flaps. The patients were followed up postoperatively for a period ranging from 3 months (for benign pathologies) to 2 years (malignant pathologies). Results: The flaps were taken up in all the patients. Minor complications like postoperative infection were seen in 2 cases, resulting in wound dehiscence in one that required resuturing that was uneventful. The appearance was bulky in all the patients, although the patients were satisfied with the overall cosmetic appearance. The average hospital stay was 2 to 4 days. Conclusion: Reconstruction of external nasal surgical defects is a challenging task. Thorough knowledge of relevant anatomy, proper planning, and availability of abundant vascularized donor tissue in the near vicinity of the defect makes this challenge acceptable with good outcomes even in the hands of otolaryngologists.

Versatility of Naso-labial Flap in Reconstruction of Facial Defects

Background

Reconstruction of facial defects is often challenging and is dependent on numerous factors including size of the defect, availability of donor site, any existing scar, patient's consent, prognosis, etc. There are various reconstruction modalities highlighted in the literature with their inherent merits and demerits. Considering the versatility of nasolabial flap, we present a case series of different facial defects where nasolabial flap has been used successfully for reconstruction.

Case Reports

Three patients with different disease process in three different areas of face were reported. All underwent wide local excision and reconstruction with nasolabial flap. The result obtained was esthetically pleasing with minimal donor site morbidity.

Conclusion

Nasolabial flap is a versatile flap and can be effectively used for reconstruction of small to moderate facial defects over any other flaps.

Effectiveness of Nasolabial Flap Versus Paramedian Forehead Flap for Nasal Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Different studies performed on nasal subunit reconstruction by either the nasolabial flap or the paramedian forehead flap have reported contradictory outcomes and complications, claiming one flap or the other as superior. This inconsistency has led to a gap in existing literature regarding the preferable flap for nasal reconstruction. Our aim was to statistically evaluate and compare these two flaps for nasal reconstruction, in terms of subunit preference, complications, and outcomes, using data from previous studies.

METHODS

This systematic review is reported using PRISMA protocol and was registered with the International prospective register of systematic reviews. The literature search was done using "paramedian forehead flap", "nasolabial flap", "melolabial flap", "nasal reconstruction". Data regarding demography of study and population, subunit reconstructed, complications, and aesthetic outcomes were extracted. Meta-analysis was performed using MetaXL and summary of findings using GRADEpro GDT.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight studies were included, and data from 2036 followed-up patients were extracted for the review. Meta-analysis was done on data from nine studies. Difference in alar reconstruction by forehead versus nasolabial flap is statistically significant [pooled odds ratio (OR) 0.3; 95% CI 0.01, 0.92; p = 0.72; I² = 0%, n = 6 studies], while for dorsum and columella reconstruction the difference is not statistically significant. Risk of alar notching is marginally more in forehead flap, however difference in incidence of partial/complete flap necrosis, alar notching and hematoma/bleeding among the flaps is not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Alar reconstruction is preferred by nasolabial flap. Complications are similar in both groups. Comparison of aesthetic outcome needs further exploration.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Infolding of Nasolabial Flap: An Excellent Surgical Technique for Full-Thickness Defect of the Lip

To find out the usefulness of the infolding technique of nasolabial flap to reconstruct full-thickness defects of the lower lip. It is a retrospective analysis of 5 surgically operated cases. The infolding nasolabial flaps were utilized for the full thickness defect over the lower lip in carcinoma of the oral cavity from January 2018 to July 2019. The patients were followed up for a minimum period of 12 months, and the outcomes were evaluated. The mean age of the patients was 39.72 ± 7.58 years (range 30-52 years). The infolding nasolabial flap has used each case for the reconstruction of the lower lip. The average length and breadth of the flaps were 65 mm (range 60-75 mm) and 35 mm (range 30-40 mm), respectively. One patient presented with partial necrosis of the flap its tip. The functional and cosmetic outcomes were found satisfactory till 12 months of follow-up, and none of the patients had a recurrence of the disease. Infolding of the nasolabial flap can be a good surgical technique for the reconstruction of the full-thickness defect of the lower lip, ensuring satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes without causing major intraoperative/postoperative complications in patients with carcinoma of the lower lip.

Nasolabial Flap: Versatile Flap for Basal Cell Carcinoma Nose

Nasolabial flap is very versatile flap for the lesion of basal cell carcinoma of nose. It is preferred choice for the closure of surgical defect of nose after removing the lesion of basal cell carcinoma. This flap has very good vascularity and scar is almost invisible. The objective of this study to evaluate the suitability of nasolabial flap for the basal cell carcinoma, the survival of the flap, cosmetic appearance of the patient after the surgery and patient satisfaction. This is the case study of ten cases of basal cell carcinoma of the nose. The skin lesion was at the nasal tip, dorsum and the side of the dorsum. All the surgeries were performed by the same and first author of the article at the department of Otorhinolaryngology Sir T General Hospital Bhavnagar Gujarat. The patient age ranged from 5th to 6th decades of life. All the patients were from the coastal region of Saurashtra Gujarat. All the surgery was performed as single stage surgery. The defatting of the flap was done in all cases to match with the texture of skin of nose. The biopsy was performed in all the cases before the surgery to confirm our clinical diagnosis. The underlying cartilage was removed in all the cases to prevent the recurrence and was sent separately for the frozen and histopathology examination. The nasolabial flap survived in all the ten cases. The color and the texture of the flap matched perfectly with the adjoining skin color of nose. The scar mark of the cheek side malar flap was almost invisible. There was no trap-door deformity observed and there was good aesthetic outcome. The nasolabial flap is very reliable and versatile flap for the basal cell carcinoma sugary of nose. It can reach to almost to the all area of nose including tip of the nose. Its single stage surgery with very good aesthetic results.

Subcutaneous Randomized Nasolabial Flap: Our Experience

Nasolabial flaps are one of the oldest methods of reconstruction. This study aims to observe the viability of a random-pattern subcutaneous nasolabial flap. Inpatients of carcinoma of oral cavity and nose undergoing excision with primary reconstruction from January 2014 to December 2019 were observed and followed-up. Their data including site of primary and post-operative complication was recorded. A total of 38 patients underwent reconstruction using nasolabial flap. Most cases were of buccal mucosa carcinoma (68.4%). Facial vessels were ligated in all except 7 cases and, only 1 (2.6%) showed total, and 3 (7.9%) showed partial flap necrosis. A subcutaneous nasolabial flap is simple, viable and easy to harvest. It is a random-pattern flap therefore; facial vessel preservation may not be a compulsion. Flap raised subcutaneously is thinner and thus inset is easy and bulk associated discomfort is avoided.

Reconstruction of Subtotal Defect of the Lower Lip: Combined Use of Karapandzic and Nasolabial Flap

Subtotal reconstruction of the lower lip after excision of the tumor is always a challenge for surgeons. It is because of the difficulty in  regaining the function of the lip, including the oral competency and restoring the aesthetic subunit. A 46-year-old patient presented with an ulceroproliferative growth involving 70% of the lower lip, including the right commissure. After the confirmation to be a malignancy, patient underwent excision of the tumour and reconstruction of the lower lip using the left Karapandzic flap and right nasolabial flap. The patient was on regular follow-up in the postoperative period to assess the surgical outcomes. The combined use of Karapandzic flap and the nasolabial flap can be reliably used for subtotal reconstruction of the lower lip in advanced oral cavity malignancy, involving one of the commissures. Later can ensure good postoperative results in terms of aesthetic and functional lip reconstruction without any significant intraoperative or postoperative complications.

Functional outcome of two different grafting techniques in the surgical management of oral submucous fibrosis: a comparative evaluation

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the functional efficacy of two different grafting techniques following the fibrotomy among subjects with oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF).

DESIGN

Forty consecutively treated OSMF subjects between 20 and 40 years who had grades 3 and 4a OSMF and mouth opening < 15 mm were included in the present study. All the subjects were randomly divided into two groups. In Group I, all the subjects received a buccal pad of fat sandwiched with a nasolabial flap following fibrotomy. In contrast, Group II subjects received a buccal pad of fat combined with a collagen graft. The effect of two different surgical protocols on mouth opening was evaluated clinically before the surgery (T₀) and 1 month (T₁), 6 months (T₂), and 12 months (T₃) after the surgery.

RESULTS

In Group I subjects, the mouth opening increased significantly (P < 0.001) from 10.90 ± 1.971 mm at T₀ to 34.25 ± 3.127 mm at T₁, but reduced marginally to 32.15 ± 3.422 mm at T₂, and 31.30 ± 3.358 mm at T₃. In Group II, the mouth opening increased significantly (P < 0.001) from 10.85 ± 1.725 mm at T₀ to 28.90 ± 3.059 mm, 29.10 ± 2.808 mm, and 28.20 ± 2.285 mm at T₁, T₂, and T_3, respectively. At the end of 12 months of follow-up, the mean value improvement in the mouth opening (T₀-T₃) was 20.4 ± 3.5 mm and 17.3 ± 2.9 mm in Groups I and II, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

The buccal pad of fat sandwiched with a nasolabial flap for the reconstruction following fibrotomy had a slightly better beneficial effect on the postoperative mouth opening among OSMF subjects.

Role of coronoidectomy and temporalis myotomy in surgical management of oral submucous fibrosis

PURPOSE

The involvement of temporalis muscle fibers by oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) and the procedure of coronoidectomy and temporalis myotomy in the surgical treatment protocol for the disease is a controversy. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the histopathological changes in temporalis muscle fibers in patients undergoing surgical treatment for OSMF and to authenticate the importance of temporalis myotomy and coronoidectomy in surgical treatment protocol.

METHOD

A 3-year prospective study was conducted to assess the histopathological changes in temporalis muscle in surgically treated OSMF cases. The predictor variables were drawn from demographic characteristics (age and gender) etiology, and mouth opening. The outcome variables were histopathological assessment of temporalis muscle fibers for parameters suggestive of degenerative changes and fibrosis changes at cellular level.

RESULTS

Out of 56 patients, 30 patients were had surgical intervention. Twenty-eight (93.3%) were male and 2 (6.6%) were female with a ratio of 14:1. Histopathological examination of temporalis muscle fibers revealed hyalinization of muscle fibers in 80% of the patients followed by loss of striation (73.33%), fragmentation (60%), nucleus internalization (33.33%), infiltration of macrophages and other inflammatory cells (20.67%), multiple nuclei (20%), and swollen muscle fibers (6.67%). Mean preoperative mouth opening was 12.4 and post-operatively 41.3 mm on 1-year follow-up and this was stable on further follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest involvement of temporalis muscle with disease itself and the justification for coronoidectomy and temporalis myotomy in the surgical protocol was established.

Pedicled Islanded Nasolabial Flap Tunneled Under Mandible for Tongue Reconstruction

Background

Nasolabial flap is reliable flap in the reconstruction of oral defects over a period of time. Still there is scanty literature available of using this flap for reconstruction of isolated defects of tongue. We carried out this study in our patients to assess the role of pedicled nasolabial flap in reconstruction of isolated tongue defects.

Methods

In total, 11 patients with T1 and T2 tongue cancer were selected for the study. The functional improvement in the form of speech and swallowing was evaluated postoperatively.

Results

The flap was successfully taken in all patients except for marginal or tip loss. This is a locally available flap with minimal operating time and does not require microvascular skills. The results of speech and swallowing after reconstruction were comparable.

Conclusion

Nasolabial flap is an excellent locally available flap for the reconstruction of the anterior two-thirds of the tongue and with very minor, if any postoperative cosmetic defect.

Reconstruction of buccal mucosa: A minimalist symbiotic approach with local flaps

BACKGROUND

Buccal mucosa defects following resection of premalignant or malignant lesions require adequate reconstruction. Both locoregional and microvascular flaps have been extensively used based on operator and patient factors. This paper focuses on the outcomes of a simplified approach for reconstruction of large buccal mucosa defects with posterior extent using a combination of two loco regional flaps.

METHOD

A combination of buccal fat pad graft and nasolabial flap was used to reconstruct large defects spanning the buccal mucosa extending to the soft palate or retromolar trigone areas. Post operative outcomes were noted in patients who underwent reconstruction using this combination technique.

RESULT

This paper highlights the favourable results and ease of technique with this combination of flaps, i.e complete coverage of large buccal mucosa defects extending to critical areas such as soft palate, retromolar trigone or tonsillar pillars; avoiding sophisticated free flaps. Satisfactory healing with adequate functional and esthetic outcomes were seen.

CONCLUSION

Defects post ablation of buccal mucosa lesions, larger than 5 cm × 5 cm, can be reconstructed using double local flaps. Buccal fat pad and nasolabial flaps heal excellently with nil morbidities and their combination provides a simple and an economical alternative option for reconstructive surgeons.

What is the Optimal Reconstructive Option for Oral Submucous Fibrosis? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Buccal Pad of Fat Versus Conventional Nasolabial and Extended Nasolabial Flap Versus Platysma Myocutaneous Flap

Background

To systematically review the reconstructive options for oral submucous fibrosis utilizing buccal pad of fat versus conventional nasolabial and extended nasolabial flap versus platysma myocutaneous flap.

Objective

The succeeding systematic review and meta-analysis addresses the following question, what is the optimal reconstructive option for oral submucous fibrosis?

Study Design

A systematic electronic and manual database search revealed five relevant articles comparing buccal fat pad, nasolabial flap and platysma myocutaneous flap as reconstructive options in oral submucous fibrosis.

Methods

A total of 1538 articles were found across PubMed, Cochrane and clinical trials.gov. Only five relevant articles were selected for the study. Quality assessment of the selected studies was executed by Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Statistical software RevMan (Review Manager [Computer program], version 5.3, Copenhagen: The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration, 2014) was used for meta-analysis. Differences in means and risk ratios were used as principal summary measures. The overall estimated effect was categorized as significant where p < 0.05.

Results

Three of the five studies selected favoured buccal fat pad over nasolabial flap owing to its ease of harvest and lesser number of post-operative complications. One study favoured nasolabial flap because of the progressive increase in mouth opening and bulk of the tissue obtained for reconstruction. A single study favoured platysma flap over nasolabial flap although no difference was obtained in mouth opening, owing its excellent tissue bulk, fewer complications compared to the nasolabial flap.

Conclusion

Definitive conclusions cannot be drawn as there are number of limitations in the studies included. However, a general consensus has been towards favouring buccal fat pad over nasolabial flap. The platysma flap owing to its excellent tissue bulk and fewer complications can be considered as an alternative when dealing with defects which are challenging to reconstruct with the buccal fat pad.

Use of Bilateral Nasolabial Flaps with Coronoidectomy as a Novel Approach to a Case of Oral Cancer with Severe Trismus

Patients with oral malignancy often have associated trismus. Trismus is a debilitating condition that needs to be treated adequately with the release of fibrosis and interposition of vascularized tissue to provide long-term improvement in the mouth opening. Treatment of oral cancer in patients with severe trismus becomes challenging because of difficult access and further deterioration of mouth opening following treatment of the malignancy. Herein, the planning of access to oral cancer and management of trismus in 9 oral cancer patients with severe trismus using nasolabial flaps and coronoidectomy are described. Bilateral nasolabial flaps and coronoidectomy were used successfully as an approach in these 9 patients with oral carcinoma with severe trismus. The advantages of this procedure are described.

Island NLF or Island FAMM Flap in Reconstruction of Oral Malignancy Defects?

Free tissue transfer is the reconstructive option of choice in oral defects of onco-resections. Local flaps like nasolabial flap and FAMM flaps need to be in the armamentarium of surgeons to use when need arises. The aim of this study is to assess utility of island FAMM or nasolabial flap in oral reconstruction, in an oncological setting. Patients with oral cancers, irrespective of nodal status, were included in the study. A total of 33 patients were enrolled from Jan 2018 to Feb 2019, of which 2 were discarded intra-operatively. Fifteen had NLF and 16 had FAMM flap reconstruction. Partial flap loss was noted in 2 patients that healed with granulation, secondarily. Island FAMM and island nasolabial flaps are equally good reconstructive options even in an oncological setup, if factors like addictions, socialising capacity of patient and presence of submucosal fibrosis can be ascertained.

Surgical management of oral submucous fibrosis with "Seagull-nasolabial flap" combined with short-term oral pentoxifylline for preventing relapse

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of seagull-shaped nasolabial flap (NLF) along with adjunctive short-term oral pentoxifylline in the surgical reconstruction of oral sub mucous fibrosis (OSMF) following fibrotomy. We retrospectively evaluated 18 patients with grade IV oral sub mucous fibrosis treated by NLF. There were 3 females and 15 males. All patients were classified as stage IV OSMF with a mean preoperative mouth opening of 8.11±3.38mm. Postoperatively, patients were administered 400mg of pentoxifylline (PTX) thrice daily for 3 months. Patients were followed up at one month, six months and one year. Mouth opening, presence or absence of malignant transformation, relapse and complications were recorded at each follow-up. We found statistically significant increase in mouth opening from 8.11±3.3 to 37.67±3.74 in the postoperative period. The complications associated with NLF were very minimal. The PTX was well tolerated by all the patients. There was no incidence of relapse or rebound fibrosis seen in our series. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that oral pentoxifylline has been administered along with surgical treatment of oral submucous fibrosis to prevent relapse. The use of oral PTX as an adjunct along with surgical reconstruction in OSMF improves mouth opening, reduces burning sensation and relapse.

The Versatility of Nasolabial Flaps in Maxillofacial Surgery

Introduction

The nasolabial flap can be used for reconstruction of the orofacial region. The procedure is of a short duration and treats orofacial soft tissue defects of small to moderate size, especially when microsurgical free flaps are less feasible due to lack of infrastructure, expertise or financial constraints.

Aims and Objectives

To study the effectiveness of the nasolabial flaps in reconstruction of orofacial defects of various origins.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective study, 10 patients (18 nasolabial flaps) were selected randomly regardless of age, sex and need for reconstruction-whether it being requirement of tissue coverage following traumatic loss of soft tissue, soft tissue coverage after resection of a benign or malignant tumor, or resection of soft tissue defects after excision of submucous fibrosis bands. Patients were treated under general anesthesia following routine investigations, using either inferiorly or superiorly based, unilateral or bilateral nasolabial flaps for local extraoral and intraoral reconstruction. Patients were evaluated for postoperative complications, flap uptake, donor site morbidity and postoperative extraoral scarring.

Results

In all cases, postoperative complications were relatively minor except in one flap where total flap loss was encountered. The average time taken for preparation of recipient site, flap elevation and closure was 72 min. The nasolabial flap proved itself to be extremely vascular and thus safe and suitable with satisfactory cosmetic outcomes.

Conclusion

The nasolabial flap proves to be a versatile flap with a proven blood supply from the facial, transverse facial and infraorbital vessels. It establishes itself as a simple procedure to execute to reconstruct the various defects of the anterior orofacial region. It is considered to be a safe flap with a low complication rate, and most importantly it offers a cosmetically pleasing and functionally satisfactory solution.

Outcome of Nasolabial Flap in the Reconstruction of Head and Neck Defects

Nasolabial flaps have been recognized as versatile flaps for a variety of defects in the face, nose, lip and the oral cavity and intraoral defects created after the excision of benign and malignant tumours. Nasolabial flaps have been utilized for covering small-to-medium size defects and usually require a second-stage procedure to divide the flap. To study the outcome of nasolabial flap in the reconstruction of head and neck defects. A prospective analysis of 25 cases was done. Of this, 24 cases were oral cancers, and one case was post-traumatic left ala loss. Oral cancers from stage I to IVa were treated with primary wide local excision, nasolabial flap reconstruction and neck dissection. Of this, 3 cases underwent bilateral nasolabial flap reconstruction. Flap release was done as a second-stage procedure after 3 weeks. Good cosmetic and functional results were obtained in almost all cases. Flap tip necrosis was noted in 2 cases, ectropion in 1 case, orocutaneous fistula in 1 case and disease recurrence in 2 cases. Pedicled nasolabial flap is a reliable flap for the reconstruction of small- and medium-sized defects in the oral cavity after excision of primary tumours and results in good overall cosmetic and functional outcome.

Reconstructing the Nasal Tip After a Human Bite: A Challenge for the Reconstructive Surgeon

Background

Human facial bites are uncommon and usually cause a wound that presents major challenges for the reconstructive surgeon.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to present the advantages and disadvantages of using a superiorly based interpolated nasolabial flap for reconstruction of a nasal tip defect.

Methods

We present a case of serious injury of the nasal tip as a result of a human bite. Early maxillofacial surgical intervention resulted in restoration of the facial anatomy and function of the structures involved.

Results and Conclusion

We present a serious mutilating injury of the tip of the nose in a young patient as a result of a human bite. These injuries can be rather destructive and cause a facial defect which may have a significant adverse psychological impact on the patient. Because of the proximity and the skin colour match of the melolabial fold to the nose, nasolabial flaps are a very attractive and reliable reconstructive choice for nasal tip defects. The relative advantages over other reconstructive options and the limitations of an interpolated superiorly based nasolabial flap are discussed. The elaborated use of a nasolabial peninsular pedicled skin flap may deliver a very satisfactory outcome from a functional and cosmetic point of view.

Extended nasolabial flap in oral submucous fibrosis - our modification

Nasolabial Flaps are the most popular and commonly used flap in reconstructing mucosal defect left by fibrous band excision in developing countries like India where free flap expertise is not easily available and affordable by poor patients. Extended nasolabial flaps have been used in oral sub mucous fibrosis to cover mucosal defect. Normally these flaps are not wide enough to cover the mucosal defect left by fibrous band excision. Our modification utilises the extended nasolabilal flap to cover the wide mucosal defect in young patients by modified insetting of these flaps. I hope this technical modification will be useful to surgeons managing oral sub mucous fibrosis in developing countries or when free flap is not possible.

Superiorly based nasolabial island flap for reconstruction of the lateral lower eyelid

Background/aim: Various flap procedures have been described and used for the lower eyelids; however, the nasolabial flap is rarely employed. We herein aimed to present the clinical results of using the superiorly based nasolabial island flap for repair of surgical defects extending to the lateral lower eyelid. Materials and methods: Nine patients with a mean age of 62 +- 6 years underwent surgery for reconstruction of the lower eyelid.Results: The diagnosis of lesions was nodular basal-cell carcinoma (n = 5), superficial basal-cell carcinoma (n = 1), well-differentiated squamous-cell carcinoma (n = 1), and basosquamous-cell carcinoma (n = 2). According to the classification reported by Spinelli and Jelks, 6 surgical defects were located at zones II and IV, while 3 were at zones II and V. Five patients required posterior lamellar reconstruction. Lagopthalmos (n = 1), ectropion (n = 1), and transient numbness of the ipsilateral upper lip (n = 1) were noted as postoperative complications. Conclusion: Despite the low number of patients, the present series demonstrated that lower eyelid defects involving zone IV or zone V can be repaired safely and reliably with the superiorly based nasolabial island flap, along with its use shown in the literature for zone II or zone III defects. The technique for raising the flap is fairly simple, with predictable surgical results. In addition, the superiorly based nasolabial island flap provides a reliable means of obtaining good wound healing with acceptable aesthetics, as well as functional results of both the donor site and reconstructed area.

Use of Combined PMMC and Nasolabial Flap for Reconstruction of Full Thickness Cheek Defect Involving Lip Commisure

Head neck cancer constitute significant cancer burden and among it carcinoma of oral cavity involving buccal mucosa is most common entity in India. Very often it involves lip commisure. Radical surgery along with radiotherapy still remains treatment of choice. Reconstruction of composite defect of oral cavity fallowing ablative surgery remains difficult task. Reconstruction of lip commisure defect after primary tumor excision is still a big challenge. Micro vascular technique primary repair is main modality of treatment which needs great surgical expertise in plastic surgery which is not possible in every institution. We propose a novel surgical reconstructive technique of use of combine pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (PMMC) with nasolabial flap for full thickness cheek defect involving large lip commisure. Both flaps having distinct advantage of relative ease in elevating flap and robust vascularity with acceptable aesthetic and functional outcome.

The place of nasolabial flap in orofacial reconstruction: A review

BACKGROUND

The use of Nasolabial flap (NLF) to reconstruct orofacial soft tissue defects is one of the oldest methods for reconstruction in the medical literature. Despite widespread use of this invaluable flap, there are still controversies over the terms used for the description of this flap.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search was run in PubMed for articles in English language on nasolabial flap in oral cavity/facial reconstruction, between 1960 and 2016. Inclusion criteria was case series that focused on the anatomy, flap design, blood supply, composition, flap motion, and the reconstructed area and donor site complications.

RESULTS

560 articles were found in PubMed search for nasolabial flap (between 1960 and 2016). 84 articles with case series structure and available full text were included. The results of the search in this topic for anatomy, flap design, blood supply,NLF composition, flap motion, reconstructed area and donor site morbidity are presented.

CONCLUSION

Nasolabial flap is an old flap for reconstructive purposes. Over time different modifications have been introduced to expand its usage. Clear definition of the terms used with this flap is given.

Nasolabial and forehead flap reconstruction of contiguous alar-upper lip defects

BACKGROUND

Defects of the nasal ala and upper lip aesthetic subunits can be challenging to reconstruct when they occur in isolation. When defects incorporate both the subunits, the challenge is compounded as subunit boundaries also require reconstruction, and local soft tissue reservoirs alone may provide inadequate coverage. In such cases, we used nasolabial flaps for upper lip reconstruction and a forehead flap for alar reconstruction.

METHODS

Three men and three women aged 21-79 years (average, 55 years) were treated for defects of the nasal ala and upper lip that resulted from cancer (n = 4) and trauma (n = 2). Unaffected contralateral subunits dictated the flap design. The upper lip subunit was excised and replaced with a nasolabial flap. The flap, depending on the contralateral reference, determined accurate alar base position. A forehead flap resurfaced or replaced the nasal ala. Autologous cartilage was used in every case to fortify the forehead flap reconstruction.

RESULTS

Patients were followed for 25.6 months (range, 1-4 years). All the flaps survived, and there were no complications. Satisfactory aesthetic results were achieved in every case. With the exception of a small vertical cheek scar and a vertical forehead scar, all incisions were concealed within the subunit borders.

CONCLUSION

From preliminary experience, we advocate combining nasolabial flap reconstruction of the upper lip with a forehead flap reconstruction of the ala to preserve normal facial appearance. This combination addresses an important void in the algorithmic approach to central facial reconstruction.

An unusual complication of nasolabial flap reconstruction

Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common carcinoma in the oral cavity. Resection of these cancers often requires reconstruction. Nasolabial flaps are a robust and reliable local flap that provide a satisfactory outcome. We report two cases where an epidermoid cyst developed within the scar of the nasolabial flap and review the literature.

Surgical defect coverage in oral submucous fibrosis patients with single-stage extended nasolabial flap

PURPOSE

Long standing oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is associated with involvement of the oral submucosa and the muscles of mastication leading to difficulty in mouth opening. Various surgical modalities are mentioned for release but each has its own limitations. The aim of the study was to evaluate the postoperative mouth opening in patients of OSMF after excision of fibrous bands followed by coronoidotomy and surgical defect coverage by extended nasolabial flap.

METHODS

We evaluated the use of extended nasolabial flaps and coronoidectomy in the management of 11 randomly selected patients with histologically confirmed oral submucous fibrosis. They all had interincisal opening of less than 25 mm and were treated by bilateral release of fibrous bands, coronoidectomy or coronoidotomy, and extended grafting with a nasolabial flap.

RESULT

Their interincisal opening improved significantly from a mean of 8.68±7 mm to a mean of 36.75±4.05 mm at 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The procedure was effective in the management of patients with oral submucous fibrosis, the main disadvantage being the extraoral scars.

[APPLICATION OF NASOLABIAL FLAP AND EAR CARTILAGE IN REPAIRING DEFECTS AFTER NASAL ALA BASAL CELL CARCINOMA RESECTION]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness of nasolabial flap and ear cartilage in repairing defects after nasal ala basal cell carcinoma resection.

METHODS

Between January 2012 and August 2014, 8 patients with nasal ala basal cell carcinoma underwent tumor resection?and defect repair with nasolabial flap and ear cartilage. Among the 8 patients, 5 were male and 3 were female, with an average age of 65 years (range, 45-76 years). The left side and right side were involved in 3 cases and 5 cases respectively. Carcinoma confirmed by pathological examination in all patients. The time between first biopsy and resection was 7-14 days (mean, 10 days). The defect ranged from 1.5 cm×1.5 cm to 2.0 cm×1.5?cm after tumor resection, and the size of nasolabial flaps ranged from 4.0 cm×1.5 cm to 5.0 cm×2.0 cm. The operations of cutting off the pedicle and thinning skin flap were performed at 6 months after first operation.

RESULTS

All flaps survived. Incisions healed by first intention, and no related complication occurred. No carcinoma recurred after cutting off the pedicle. All patients were followed up for 6 months. All patients were satisfied with the nasal contour, symmetrical projection of the alar dome, and no obvious scar.

CONCLUSIONS

Nasolabial flap transfer and ear cartilage transplant method not only can repair the nasal ala defects, but also can avoid obvious scar and obtain good nasal ala contour profile. The shortcoming is that patients have to receive two operations.

Efficacy of nasolabial flap in reconstruction of fibrotomy defect in surgical management of oral submucous fibrosis: a prospective study

PURPOSE

Various surgical modalities have been used in the surgical management of oral submucous fibrosis with variable results. This prospective study evaluates the efficacy of nasolabial flap in the reconstruction of fibrotomy defect in surgical treatment of oral submucous fibrosis in terms of functional and esthetic outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

In this prospective study, we treated 20 patients of oral submucous fibrosis surgically. The surgical protocol was consisting of bilateral fibrotomy, temporal myotomy, and coronoidotomy or coronoidectomy followed by reconstruction of fibrotomy defect with bilateral extended nasolabial flaps. All patients were prescribed with nutritional supplements and antioxidants. Vigorous mouth opening exercise was made compulsory for every patient. Preoperative and postoperative evaluation was done for interincisal mouth opening, function of mastication, and cosmetic results. Patient's regular follow-up was done for 2 years.

RESULTS

Postoperatively, we noted excellent increase in the interincisal mouth opening relieving trismus. Patient's ability to chew solid food was increased significantly. Extraoral scar was minimal and well accepted by all the patients. There was no morbidity of the donor site. There was no injury to the facial nerve in all cases. The only drawback was intraoral hair growth which went on reducing with mucosalization of the graft tissue.

CONCLUSION

Random pattern nasolabial flap is a very good option for intraoral reconstruction of fibrotomy defect in surgical treatment of oral submucous fibrosis with excellent functional and cosmetic results with minimal complications.

A useful flap combination in wide and complex defect reconstruction of the medial canthal region: Glabellar rotation and nasolabial V-Y advancement flaps

BACKGROUND

Reconstruction of medial canthal defects after tumour excision is difficult owing to the thin skin of the region and the concavity of the anatomical landmarks, which enclose complex structures such as the medial canthal ligament and the lacrimal system. Local reconstruction methods for this region include secondary healing, full-thickness skin grafts, and skin flaps from the frontal, transnasal, glabellar and upper eyelid regions.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate a useful combination of two local flaps in wide defects of the medial canthal region.

METHODS

Between 1998 and 2012, a combination of glabellar rotation and nasolabial V-Y advancement flaps were used in 11 patients with wide complex defects after excision, including periosteum, of invasive basal cell carcinoma.

RESULTS

All patients were tumour free and underwent functional and aesthetic reconstruction of the medial canthal region. There were no major complications, and no relapses were observed.

CONCLUSION

This technique achieves good match in colour and texture, and has satisfactory results both aesthetically and functionally. In addition, donor area morbidity is minimal and surgical technique is simple.

Unilateral one stage nasolabial flap for reconstruction of the lips

BACKGROUND

Nasolabial flap (NLF) is one of the oldest described soft tissue flaps. Despite the great advances in maxillofacial reconstruction it still has a stable location in the reconstructive ladder of the face and oral cavity. Reconstruction of the lips, which are important structures that connect the oral cavity to the facial skin, with this flap is the interest of the surgeons.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Experience of the authors for reconstruction of the upper lip philtrum, correction of lower lip contracture and subtotal reconstruction of the lower lip with emphasis on simultaneous correction of the red lip (volume and color) is explained in five cases.

RESULTS

Satisfactory functional and aesthetic results were obtained. Iatrogenic epidermoid cyst occurred in one patient.

CONCLUSION

One stage reconstruction of lateral lower lip defects with/without commissural involvement in full or partial thickness defects is possible by NLF. Supplementary flaps are needed when the vermilion needs simultaneous reconstruction.

Malignant conversion of oral submucous fibrosis in surgically treated case

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is an insidious chronic disease affecting any part of the oral cavity and sometimes the pharynx with epithelial atrophy leading to stiffness of the oral mucosa, causing trismus and inability to eat. However a more serious complication of this disease is the risk of the development of oral carcinoma. We reported the histopathologically proven case of OSMF with initial interincisal mouth opening 2mm which was treated surgically with nasolabial flap technique but failed to follow up and could not do active mouth opening exercises. Malignant conversion of OSMF was seen in this case. This is required to assess the progress and evaluate any malignant transformation at the earliest. So, the importance of active co-operation and frequent follow up cannot be overemphasized. The purpose of this study is to emphasize the importance of regular follow up and frequent biopsies to facilitate oral examination and to check any malignant conversion after the surgery.

Eyelid Reconstruction: Everything Is Not Lost When All Is Lost

Eyelid injuries are a common emergency room challenge in patients presenting with history of road traffic accidents. Overzealous debridement can result in tissue loss in which primary repair becomes impossible along with loss of critical landmarks especially in tissue as fragile as the eyelids. We present a 45-year-old male with avulsion injury of the right lower eyelid compounded by debridement at a primary health care facility. Nasolabial flap reconstruction was done with release of the bulbar conjunctiva to achieve aesthetic and functional endpoints. Adhering to the fundamental guidelines of repair of the eyelids as a primary and definitive surgery holds the crux to the best cosmetic and functional outcome.

The cranially based contralateral nasolabial flap for reconstruction of paranasal and periorbital surgical defects

The importance of the paranasal and periorbital regions on the aesthetics of the face presents a variety of reconstructive challenges for surgical and traumatic defects of those regions. We used the cranially based nasolabial flap in patients with full-thickness soft-tissue defects of the paranasal and periorbital regions harvested from the contralateral side of the present defect. We present our experience in 25 patients of geriatric population (13 females and 12 males with a mean age of 76) with complex soft-tissue defects in the paranasal and periorbital regions whose defects were reconstructed with contralateral nasolabial skin flaps. Sizes of the defects changed between 2 × 3 cm and 6 × 7 cm. The flap sizes varied from a width of 2 to 5 cm (average 3 cm) and a length of 7 to 11 cm (average 8 cm). Primary closure of the donor sites of the flaps was possible in 24 of the patients in this series. Twenty-one flaps of this series (84%) healed without any necrosis and completely survived. The contralateral nasolabial flap is a very convenient, safe and reliable flap that can be used in medium to large paranasal and periorbital defects. Optimal aesthetic results for a variety of central facial defects could be obtained with this flap, especially when the ipsilateral nasolabial flap cannot be used due to various reasons.

A new technique for one-stage total lower lip reconstruction: Achieving the perfect balance

BACKGROUND

Reconstruction of extensive lower lip defects is difficult. The authors describe a new technique of one-stage total lower lip reconstruction, with the ultimate goal being achievement of the delicate balance between adequate mouth opening and competent mouth closure, with satisfactory aesthetic outcome.

METHODS

The authors applied their new reconstructive technique in a patient with extensive lower lip defect following excision of squamous cell carcinoma. Bilateral inferiorly based nasolabial flaps were used for reconstruction of lower lip. For vermillion reconstruction, a bucket-handle mucomuscular flap from upper lip was designed primarily using the pars marginalis portion of orbicularis oris. Compared with previously described techniques, this procedure is unique with respect to the alignment of the nasolabial flaps in relation to one another. Furthermore, this technique of vermillion reconstruction is a one-stage procedure with minimal morbidity, enables preservation of the vascular pedicle and innervation and maintains the orientation of orbicularis oris, thus providing a competent oral sphincter. To the authors' knowledge, this mucomuscular upper lip flap has not been described earlier and has definite advantages over the commonly used methods of vermillion reconstruction.

RESULTS

The functional and aesthetic outcomes are satisfactory on follow-up, with normal lip movements and sensation, adequate mouth opening and oral competence, good colour and texture match with adjacent tissues, and excellent volume and quality of the vermillion. No subsequent corrective surgery is required.

CONCLUSIONS

This technique is simple and achieves the main goals of total lower lip reconstruction in a single stage with minimal morbidity.

The last resort for reconstruction of nasal floor in difficult-to-repair alveolar cleft cases: a retrospective study

AIM

This article describes four new methods as the last resort for reconstruction of the nasal floor in difficult-to-repair alveolar cleft patients, including bone suture technique, vascularized interpositional periosteal-connective tissue flap from the palate (VIP-CT flap), anteriorly based inferior turbinate flap, and skinless subcutaneous nasolabial flap, with emphasis on indications and limitations.

METHODS

In a retrospective study, data were obtained from 214 patients referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Mashhad Dental School, Iran, for alveolar cleft bone grafting in 2004-2013. Eighteen patients had been treated using special techniques other than direct suturing for reconstruction of the nasal floor during alveolar cleft bone grafting.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients had been treated using these techniques as the last resort for nasal floor reconstruction; including bone suture technique (50%), inferior turbinate flap (33.3%), VIP-CT flap (11.2%) and nasolabial flap (5.5%). All the patients had a unilateral alveolar cleft, 72.2% of which were located on the left side and 44.5% of the patients were female.

CONCLUSION

Nasal floor reconstruction in 8.4% of alveolar cleft patients needed special techniques and flaps.

Is buccal fat pad a better option than nasolabial flap for reconstruction of intraoral defects after surgical release of fibrous bands in patients with oral submucous fibrosis? A pilot study: a protocol for the management of oral submucous fibrosis

PURPOSE

The aim this study was to compare the buccal fat pad (BFP) and nasolabial flap for reconstruction of intraoral defects after release of fibrous bands in patients with oral submucous fibrosis (OSF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a comparative study. The study sample was derived from the population of patients who presented, with restricted mouth opening of less than 20 mm, to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Swargiya Dada Saheb Kalmegh Dental College and Hospital Hingna Nagpur. The patients were divided into two groups. In Group I (n = 10) reconstruction was performed with a nasolabial flap and in Group II (n = 10) with BFP. Both groups were analysed separately for mouth opening (interincisal distance in millimetres) preoperatively and 20 months postoperatively, time taken for epithelialization of BFP and nasolabial flaps. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS statistical software for Windows, version 8.0 (SPSS, Inc, Chicago, IL) using the _2 test and Student's t test.

RESULTS

In all 20 patients the interincisal mouth opening was (mean) 11 mm (3-19 mm) preoperatively which improved to a mean of 42 mm (23-52 mm). In Group I there were more complications as compared to Group II such as partial flap necrosis particularly at the tips, temporary widening of oral commissure and subluxation of TMJ. The unsightly extraoral scar and intraoral growth of hairs were not seen in Group II.

CONCLUSION

BFP is the better choice for reconstruction in comparison to nasolabial flap.

Use of nasolabial flap in intra and extraoral reconstruction: our experience with 40 cases

PURPOSE

This article represents the use of inferiorly based nasolabial flap in reconstruction of various intraoral and extraoral defects.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Nasolabial flaps were performed in 40 patients, for reconstruction of buccal mucosa, gingivobuccal sulcus, commissure, lower lip, floor of mouth, upper lip and lower alveolar defects.

RESULTS

The most common defect site in the oral cavity was the buccal mucosa. Partial flap necrosis occurred in five patients. Out of 40 cases of carcinoma of lip, commissure and floor of the mouth, all the patients had good speech after complete healing of the wound. None of the patients who had lip or commissure reconstruction developed drooling of saliva due to lip incompetence.

CONCLUSION

The inferiorly based nasolabial flap provides reliable coverage of intermediate-sized oral cavity defects when used alone. Minimal donor morbidity is associated with its use. It is especially useful in elderly patients with facial skin laxity and where esthetics is not a major concern.