Radial Forearm Palmaris Longus Research Articles

Reconstruction of Multiple Lip and Facial Defects With Bipaddle and Sensate Radial Forearm Free Flap.

Free flaps and their modifications are used to reconstruct multiple large defects in the lip and face. In this study, we present our results on the reconstruction of these defects using bipaddle and sensate free radial forearm-palmaris longus flaps and subsequent revision surgeries. Patient medical records of 11 patients with a mean age of 63.9 ± 12.8 years were retrospectively reviewed. Functional oral competence, lip cosmetics, lip sensation, and donor forearm scars were evaluated using the drooling rating scale, visual analog scale, Semmes Weinstein Monofilament test, and patient and observer scar assessment scale, respectively. The mean dimensions of distal and proximal skin paddles of bipaddle free radial forearm-palmaris longus flaps were 12.7 ± 9.9 and 20.5 ± 3.8 cm2. Mean lengths of the bridge and proximal pedicles were 4.7 ± 1.6 and 5.5 ± 0.7 cm. All the flaps survived. No drooling was observed in the 2 patients without lower lip defects. The mean drooling scores of the 9 patients with lower lip defects were statistically different (Analysis of Variance, pANOVA < 0.00001) at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postoperatively. The differences between 3 and 12 months were the most significant (pANOVA < 0.00001, pTUKEY < 0.000001). The lip sensation and drooling scores showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.8504). All patients were able to speak fluently, drink fluid without leakage, and blow a balloon easily. All patients and observers were satisfied with the lip cosmetics, with no significant difference between satisfaction scores (P = 0.087615).There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.00001) between mean sensation scores of surrounding healthy lip (2.94 ± 0.27) and free flaps (4.15 ± 0.4). All the donor scars healed uneventfully.

Total Lip Reconstruction with Tendinofasciocutaneous Radial Forearm Flap

Introduction. Squamous cell carcinoma is a common tumour of lower lip. Small defects created by surgical resection may be readily reconstructed by linear closure or with local flaps. However, large tumours resection often results with microstomia and oral incompetence, drooling, and speech incomprehension. The goal of this study is to describe our experience with composite free radial forearm-palmaris longus tendon flap for total or near total lower lip reconstruction. Patients and Methods. This procedure was used in 5 patients with 80–100% lip defect resulting from Squamous cell carcinoma. Patients' age ranged from 46 to 82 years. They are three male patients and two female. In 3 cases chin skin was reconstructed as well and in one case a 5 cm segment of mandible was reconstructed using radius bone. In one case where palmaris longus was missing hemi-flexor carpi radialis tendon was used instead. All patients tolerated the procedure well. Results. All flaps totally survived. No patient suffered from drooling. All patients regained normal diet and normal speech. Cosmetic result was fair to good in all patients accept one. Conclusion. We conclude that tendino-fasciocutaneous radial forearm flap for total lower lip reconstruction is safe. Functional and aesthetic result approaches reconstructive goals.

Reconstruction of Large Defects of the Lips and Commissure Using a Composite Radial Forearm Palmaris Longus Free Flap Associated With a Lengthening Temporalis Myoplasty

We performed a single-stage operation to reconstruct a large defect of the lips and commissure using a composite radial forearm-palmaris longus free flap. To obtain cranial traction and a voluntary smile, independently from any jaw movement, traction was achieved by using a lengthening temporalis myoplasty. The tendon attached to the coronoid process was fixed to the palmaris longus tendon, recreating a new commissure and a "neo-modiolus." Physical therapy was started on the 21st postoperative day to facilitate progress from a "mandibular smile," to ideally a spontaneous and symmetric smile after 3 months of therapy. This procedure was able to obtain good oral continence and a good commissural movement during smile which has not previously been mentioned in the published literature.

Transverse fascial suspension with muscle bow traction: Advantages for full-thickness lip reconstruction involving the oral commissure using free flap

Large full-thickness oral defects involving the oral commissure continue to be a challenge for reconstructive surgeons. Although local flaps are the best option for full-thickness lip reconstruction, they are unavailable for large defects. In particular, recent advances in microsurgery have extended the available surgical options using free flaps, but for full-thickness large oral defects involving the oral commissure, it is still difficult to obtain good function and competence. The major disadvantages are the drooping and loosening of the reconstructed lip and the difficulty in restoring a natural oral commissure. We present two cases of lip reconstruction for full-thickness large defects involving the oral commissure in which free flaps with the muscle bow traction method were used to overcome these problems. In case 1, the lip was reconstructed with a free radial forearm-palmaris longus tendon composite flap. The tendon was sutured onto the orbicularis oris stumps. In case 2, the lip was reconstructed with a free anterolateral thigh flap including the fascia lata. A fascial strip in the flap was sutured to the residual orbicularis muscles. In each case, additional nonvascularised fascia lata was harvested and suspended the reconstructed lip in transverse direction as a muscle bow traction method. Both patients achieved good oral competence without medial deviation of the oral commissure and were able to resume a regular diet without drooping and loosening of the reconstructed lip. For large full-thickness oral defects involving the oral commissure, transverse fascial suspension with muscle bow traction is useful for functional and cosmetic reconstruction.

“Hammock” reconstruction of full-thickness excised lower lip: a case report

A number of techniques have been described to reconstruct lower lip defects. A microsurgical total lower lip reconstruction was performed in a 48-year-old female patient affected by a squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip. The patient underwent a wide lower lip resection and an immediate aesthetic and functional lower lip reconstruction. The lower lip was reconstructed with a composite radial forearm palmaris longus flap. The subcutaneous layer of the residual upper lip was undermined and palmaris longus tendon was transfixed to the paranasal portion of the orbicularis oris muscle, giving to the flap a good aesthetic “hammock” effect and achieving a nearly impairment free function. The use of a forearm free flap for lower lip reconstruction has previously been described, with poor functional results. We have described a different technique to inset and fix the flap using palmaris longus tendon: the suspension vector of the flap and the preservation of the residual orbicularis oris fibers seem to be of great importance to achieve a satisfactory functional recovery. We propose that the radial forearm free flap comprising palmaris longus tendon, inset and fixed with the described technique, may be a good alternative among the surgical options for full-thickness lower lip defects in order to achieve a satisfactory aesthetic and functional reconstruction.

Lower lip reconstruction with a radial forearm–palmaris longus free flap and additional “cattle gate” bar of palmaris longus tendon

We report a patient in whom we reconstructed a full thickness 95% lower lip defect after excision of a large squamous cell carcinoma. A composite free radial forearm–palmaris longus flap was used with an additional length of palmaris longus tendon to add support to the inferior part of the flap. We believe that this extra bar of palmaris longus graft can add important structure to an otherwise unsupported part of the reconstruction.

Reconstruction of Massive Lower Lip Defect With the Composite Radial Forearm-palmaris Longus Free Flap

Sakai et al described a composite radial forearm plamaris longus flap (CRFPL) for total lower lip reconstruction. However, this technique is not fully capable of preserving satisfactory oral competence, especially when the patients are speaking or eating. Valuable modifications and refinement of the technique of using a composite radial forearm-palmaris longus flap have been described to improve the functional outcomes of this technique. The purpose of this case report is to present a successful empowered static and partial dynamic reconstruction of the massive lower lip defect with the CRFPL.A 70-year-old patient presented with a large tumor of the lower lip with two years of clinical history was referred to our institution. The patient underwent resection of the tumor with bilateral modified neck dissection. The CRFPL flap was harvested from the left forearm at the same time as the tumor resection. The flap was folded over the palmaris longus tendon. We passed the free edges of the palmaris longus tendon through the modiolus bilaterally in appropriate fashion from the subcutaneous plan superficially to the malar eminence, following the direction of the zygomaticus major muscle rather than passing them intramuscularly through the modiolus. Afterward, they were anchored to the malar eminences with suitable tension to achieve the empowered sling effect. Postoperative period was uneventful. The follow-up period was one year. There was no local recurrence or regional metastasis. The patient had excellent oral competence both in resting condition and during speaking and eating. Mouth opening was sufficient. He was able to resume a regular diet and had near-normal speech. The aesthetic result was also satisfactory. In conclusion, regardless of the which modification of the reconstruction with CRFPL flap is chosen in such cases, successful reconstruction providing the oral competence and acceptable aesthetic appearance requires the precise pre- and intraoperative planning, respectfulness to the modiolus and suitable placement and anchorage of the palmaris longus tendon into key anatomic points.

Eyelid reconstruction with a composite radial forearm palmaris longus tendon flap

We performed reconstruction with a composite radial forearm palmaris longus tendon flap in patients with wide defects of upper or lower eyelids. In one upper eyelid reconstruction, a palmaris longus tendon was fixed to the frontal muscle to make it possible to open the eye. In the lower eyelid reconstruction, the tendon was fixed to both the medial palpebral ligament and the lateral orbital rim to support the flap. In wide upper and lower eyelid reconstruction with a forearm flap, it is convenient to utilise the palmaris longus tendon to support the flap.

Composite Anterolateral Thigh???Fascia Lata Flap: A Good Alternative to Radial Forearm???Palmaris Longus Flap for Total Lower Lip Reconstruction

Major defects of the lower lip are challenging to the reconstructive surgeon. The major goals in treating total lower lip defects are reconstruction of the external skin and mucosal lining and maintenance of oral competence and sphincter function. The authors describe reconstruction of total lower lip and larger full-thickness defects including the cheek and commissure by means of a composite anterolateral thigh-fascia lata free flap. The flap was harvested with 5-cm fascial extensions at the superior and inferior margins. The flap was folded over the fascia lata to restore the intraoral lining and cover the external skin defect. Fascia lata extensions were divided longitudinally into two fascial strips at both margins of the flap. Two strips were tunneled through the orbicularis muscle in the upper lip and sutured to each other and to the orbicularis muscle. The remaining two strips were anchored to the zygomatic bone periosteum by permanent sutures. This procedure was used in 11 patients. In all cases, disease was advanced squamosus cell carcinoma. The patients' ages ranged from 37 to 72 years. Nine patients had cancer of the lower lip and two patients had a buccal cancer involving the lip. The entire lower lip, bilateral modiolus, and part of the cheek were resected in all patients, and mandibulectomy was performed in three patients. Flap survival was 100 percent. One patient died 10 days after the operation because of cardiopulmonary arrest. At the end of the 1-year follow-up period, all patients had good oral continence at rest and had achieved sufficient oral competence when eating. Eight patients were able to resume a regular diet and two patients could eat a soft diet. This flap is a good choice for reconstruction of the extensive head and neck defects. We think that anterolateral thigh-fascia lata composite flap has maximum reconstructive capacity and minimal donor-site morbidity. This flap has many advantages over the radial forearm flap and should replace to the composite radial forearm palmaris longus tendon flap when total lower lip reconstruction is concerned.

P.161 Reconstruction of the total lower lip, chin and mandible with the composite radial forearm-palmaris longus and fibular osteocutaneous free flaps

P.161 Reconstruction of the total lower lip, chin and mandible with the composite radial forearm-palmaris longus and fibular osteocutaneous free flaps

Use of Radial Forearm Free Flap With Palmaris Longus Tendon in Reconstruction of Total Maxillectomy With Sparing of Orbital Contents

Nasal paragangliomas are extremely rare. The most adequate treatment is total excision. After surgical excision requiring total maxillectomy, there has been no ideal technique for reconstruction. A 47-year-old man was admitted to our clinic because of recurrent epistaxis, which lasted for 2 months. He was also suffering from nasal airway obstruction. The physical examination revealed a mass originating from the medial aspect of the middle turbinate of the right nasal cavity. It invaded the anterior maxillary wall and hard and soft palate. Endoscopic examination showed that the mass pushed the nasal septum to the left side and protruded into the nasopharynx. The mass was fleshy and had a rich capillary network. Conventional paranasal sinus radiographs were normal. Computerized tomography of the skull showed the mass protruding into the nasopharynx. A total maxillectomy was performed. Histopathological evaluation showed neoplastic tissue consisting of round, oval, or slightly elongated cells, altogether of a rather monomorphous appearance, tending to arrange themselves in clusters adjacent to or around capillary blood vessels. The blood vessels were numerous and branched. Reticulum staining showed a typical Zellballen arrangement of the neoplastic cells to provide a firmer basis for the diagnosis of paraganglioma. To reconstruct the total maxillectomy defect, a radial forearm free flap with the palmaris longus tendon was elevated to inlay the nasal cavity and the oral cavity and to suspend the ocular globe. The flap was placed into the defect, and the palmaris longus tendon was medially and laterally anchored to the periosteum of the frontal bone to suspend the ocular globe in the orbital cavity. One part of the skin island was used to close the defect of the nasal mucosal cavity, and the other part was used to repair the oral mucosal defect of the palate. Consequently, speech was considered near normal; the patient was able to eat an unrestricted diet and to retain both solid and liquid food inside the oral cavity without drooling, and there was no diplopia or enophthalmos. Six months later, porous polyethylene was inserted and fixed to the zygomatic bone with a miniplate and miniscrews to restore malar contour. No further procedure was believed to be necessary later on. Two years later, a satisfactory and functional esthetic result was obtained, providing an acceptable suspension of the ocular globe and filling of the total maxillectomy defect. We believe that a total maxillectomy is indicated if it is needed in nasal paragangliomas and that microsurgical repair with the composite radial forearm-palmaris longus free flap has several advantages: 1) it can offer en bloc reconstruction of the entire defect after a total maxillectomy in terms of good function and cosmesis; 2) it can repair mucosal defects; and 3) it can anchor and suspend the ocular globe in its original anatomical location, protecting against gravity through the sling effect of the palmaris longus tendon. The composite radial forearm-palmaris longus free flap has not been described previously for suspension of the ocular globe.

Reconstruction of Total Lower Lip and Chin Defects Using the Composite Radial Forearm—Palmaris Longus Tendon Free Flap

Functional and aesthetic restoration of total lip and chin defects can be achieved using the composite radial forearm-palmaris longus tendon free flap. To present the technique we use and our experience with this form of reconstruction in 10 consecutive patients with total lip and chin defects who were surgically treated between 1992 and 1998. The palmaris longus tendon acting as a sling over which the flap is draped is responsible for long-term maintenance of vertical lip height and lip support. The factors responsible for this are the long-term maintenance of vertical lip height and lip support and the transfer of facial muscle activity to the neolip. All patients were satisfied with their final reconstructive result. Oral competence for deglutition and speech was achieved in all patients in our case series, with no incidence of drooling. We recommend the use of the composite radial forearm-palmaris longus tendon free flap for this type of reconstructive surgery. Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2000;2:53-56

Immediate Tendon Achilles Reconstruction With Composite Palmaris Longus Grafts

Full-thickness defects of the posterior heel constitute a continuing reconstructive challenge due to a relative lack of regional tissues in this area and the inherent avascularity of the tendo-Achilles. Wound closure and tendon reconstruction with composite flaps can potentially accelerate healing, reduce scarring, and improve tendon function. In 2 patients, a radial forearm-palmaris longus composite free flap was used to reconstruct full-thickness defects of the heal and tendo-Achilles. Rapid healing and return of function were obtained without significant donor site disability.

Reconstruction of the Lips, Oral Commissure, and Full-Thickness Cheek with a Composite Radial Forearm Palmaris Longus Free Flap

Reconstruction of the lower and upper lips, commissure, and full-thickness cheek defects using a composite radial forearm palmaris longus free flap with secondary commissuroplasty is described. This flap is useful for reconstruction of the total lower lip as well as larger defects that include full-thickness cheek and the commissure.

Reconstruction of the Lower Lip and Chin with the Composite Radial Forearm—Palmaris Longus Free Flap

Four cases of total lip and chin reconstruction are presented. In three, the composite radial forearm-palmaris longus free flap was used for reconstruction. In the fourth case, the palmaris longus was separated from the flap but still used as a lower lip sling. In all cases, the entire lower lip and the soft tissue of the chin were reconstructed in one stage. All patients healed primarily, and the three who underwent radiotherapy tolerated it without complications. Lip seal and speech were good, and there was no problem with drooling. Postoperative results emphasize the importance of respecting the aesthetic unit of the lower lip and chin.