Closure of Oro-Antral Fistula with Pedicled Buccal Fat Pad; a Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Background and Aim: Chronic oro-antral fistula following dental extraction is a common complication. This paper demonstrates the use of pedicled buccal fat pad in the repair of chronic oro-antral fistula.Materials and Methods: A case of a chronic oro-antral fistula of 5-year duration in a 56-year-old male was successfully repaired with pedicled buccal fat pad after several unsuccessful attempts of treatment with other local flaps. A review of relevant literature is also presented. Results: Complete epithelization of the pedicled buccal fat pad was observed 4 weeks post-operatively with no postoperative complications.Conclusion: Pedicled buccal fat pad is a reliable flap for the repair of oro-antral fistula. The easy mobilization of the buccal fat pad, its excellent blood supply, and minimal donor site morbidity make it an ideal flap in such cases. It should also be considered as a reliable back-up procedure in the event of failure of other techniques.