Reconstruction of the Floor of the Mouth Using Free Jejunal Grafts

Abstract

Objective: To describe the postoperative function, benefits, and complications associated with free jejunal transfer for reconstruction of the floor of the mouth.Patients and Methods: Free jejunal grafts were used for reconstruction of the floor of the mouth in 6 patients after radical resection for cancer.Results: The mean score for the Japanese speech intelligibility test was 60.8% and all patients were able to swallow without difficulty. By fixing the mesenteric side of the jejunum to the mandible, it was possible to restore a lingual sulcus, which facilitated denture wearing. The severity of post-radiation xerostomia after surgery was evaluated by visual analogue scale. Xerostomia was significantly relieved for patients undergoing jejunal graft compared with other flaps.Conclusion: The benefits of this flap outweigh the disadvantages, and free jejunal transfer is well suited for reconstruction of the floor of the mouth.