Midface defects caused by mucormycosis with a new classification: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND

The most complex and debated aspect of head and neck reconstructive surgery is the management of midface defects caused by malignant or non-malignant diseases. This study proposes a new classification system for patients with midface defects arising from non-malignant and non-traumatic diseases.

METHODS

In this study, 107 patients with midface defects resulting from mucormycosis were evaluated according to the anatomical locations of involvement and the differences between the affected areas.

RESULTS

Diabetes was identified as the most common underlying disease, while the paranasal sinuses were the most frequently involved sites in cases of mucormycosis. Fourteen patients developed mucormycosis without any associated risk factors, and one patient exhibited brain tissue involvement.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to present a comprehensive classification system for patients presenting with midface defects due to mucormycosis.