Clinical observation of individualized forearm flap in reconstruction of oral and maxillofacial defects

Abstract

Objective To investigate the forearm flap personalized design method and the curative effect in repairing maxillofacial defects. Methods From March, 2011 to September, 2015, 16 cases with oral maxillofacial tumor and facial tissue defect were treated. There were 8 males and 8 females with an age range of 41-70 years (mean, 54 years). According to the shape and size of the defect after tumor resection in each patient, the forearm flap was designed to repair the defect. The effectiveness was evaluated after operation by observing the survival of the forearm flap transplantation, the patient’s facial appearance, the functions of speech, swallowing. Results The incision healed by first intention in this group, 16 cases of forearm flap survived. All cases were followed-up 8-36 months without tumor recurrence. The functions of speech, swallowing were basically normal. The facial appearance was satisfactory. The patients were satisfied with their appearance and functional recovery after operation. Conclusion Take personal way of forearm flap design according to maxillofacial soft tissue defect, can restore the maximum facial appearance and function of patients, improve the quality of life of patients after surgery to repair, can obtain satisfactory results. Key words: Maxillofacial defect; Radial forearm free flap; Individualization, repair; Microsurgical technique