OP020: Buccinator myomucosal flap for the reconstruction of glossectomy defect

Abstract

The use of the myomucosal flap from the buccinator muscle is a valuable reconstruction method for intra-oral defects. We report the clinical advantages and pitfalls of utilizing the buccinator myomucosal flap for tongue reconstruction after intraoral resection of tongue cancer. We used buccal artery based buccinator myomucosal flaps for tongue reconstruction in eleven edentulous patients who underwent oncologic resection of tongue cancer. The size and site of the tongue defect ranged from one-third to one-half of the tongue in the lateral border. We analyzed the clinical features, oncologic and functional outcomes to define adequate indication. All flaps were successfully harvested and transposed, and the donor sites were primarily closed. The pedicles were safely divided 2–3 weeks postoperatively. In eight of eleven patients, concurrent upper neck dissection was performed without compromising blood supply to the flap. The range of tongue motion and the volume of the reconstructed tongue were satisfactory and the patients did not have any difficulty in swallowing and speech. Particularly in the edentulous patients, the buccal myomucosal flap can be a good option for reconstructing the partial tongue defects after cancer surgery.