Chimeric perforator flap based on the descending branch of lateral circumflex femoral artery for tongue reconstruction after advanced tongue cancer resection

Abstract

Objective: To explore the advantages and clinical efficacy of free chimeric perforator flap based on the descending branch of circumflex femoral artery applied to tongue reconstruction after advanced tongue cancer resection. Methods: From October 2013 to December 2018, 57 cases received tongue and oral base reconstruction surgeries using the descending branch of circumflex femoral artery chimeric perforator flap, including 39 males and 18 females, ranged from 20 to 76 years old. And all cases were with stage T3 and T4 tongue cancers, including 35 cases of squamous cell carcinoma, 7 cases of low differentiation cancer, 5 cases of oncosarcoma, and 10 cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma. The tongue was reconstructed by using perforator flap and muscle flap to fill the dead space at the oral floor. The artery anastomoses with the superior thyroid artery or facial artery in the receiving area, and the vein anastomoses with the internal jugular vein in the receiving area. The shape, function and local complications of the reconstructed tongue were observed after operation. Results: Of 57 cases, only one case had partial necrosis of flap, while other 56 cases with chimeric perforator flap survived. Postoperative gastric tube and tracheal cannula were removed in all patients, no cases with oral fistula. All donor sites were sutured in one stage. Postoperative radiotherapy was performed in 41 of the patients. All patients were followed up for 3 to 60 months (average of 20.7 months), with satisfactory esthetic and functional results in reconstructed tongues. Only linear scars were left in the donor areas of the legs, and no lower limb dysfunction was observed. Conclusions: The descending branch of circumflex femoral artery chimeric perforator flap can used for repairing simultaneously the defects of both tongue and oral base. It is helpful to avoid the occurrence of oral fistula and to provide the reconstructed tongue with a good function. It is a good choice to use the descending branch of circumflex femoral artery chimeric perforator flap for tongue reconstruction after resection of advanced tongue cancer resection.