Palatal bone anchorage of PMMC flap – A novel technique for palatal reconstruction in oral cancers

Abstract

Resection of oral cancers involving upper alveolus/maxilla/palate produce large bony defects, reconstruction of which pose a surgical challenge. Various flaps are being used for palatal reconstruction including free flaps and pedicled flaps. Suturing at the flap-palatal mucosal junction is a challenge and is a common site for gaping and dehiscence leading to flap failure. In our case we propose a novel technique of palatal bone anchorage of PMMC flap for palatal reconstruction, which can provide greater stability at flap-palatal mucosal junction and improved flap outcomes.