Clinical application of folded free radial forearm flaps for reconstruction of full-tickness cheek defects after resection of buccal carcinoma

Abstract

Objective:To investigate the therapeutic effect of folded free radial forearm flaps (RFF) for reconstruction of full-tickness cheek defects after the resection of buccal carcinoma.Method:Seventeen cases of buccal carcinoma received radical neck dissection with cheekectomy and mandibulectomy, and the folded RFF to reconstruct full-tickness cheek defects simultaneously. Preoperative Allen test, ultrasonic doppler blood flow meter examination or computed tomography angiography confirmed good vascular condition of the forearm. Result: RFF were obtained from all patients, and completely survived. During the follow-up period of 6-36 months, the lateral morphology of the cheek was restored well and the mouth opening is normal. Language and swallowing function recovered well, without salivation or cheek biting. There were no obvious complications in the donor site. One case（T₃N₁M₀）died of pulmonary metastatic carcinoma a year later. Conclusion:The success rate is high and the morphology and function recovered well of the folded RFF for reconstruction of full-tickness cheek defects, so it is a reliable method to reconstruct full-tickness cheek defects after the resection of buccal carcinoma.