Use of AlloDerm in primary reconstruction after resection of squamous cell carcinoma of the lip and oral commissure.

AlloDerm (LifeCell Corporation, Branchburg NJ) is an acellular dermal homograft processed from human cadaveric skin. AlloDerm has been used successfully for soft tissue reconstruction due to its lack of immunogenicity and minimal absorption. In the lip, it has been utilized for aesthetic lip augmentation and as an injectable filler. Description of its usage as an implant in primary lip reconstruction after tumor resection is limited. We describe the case of a 52 year old male with a squamous cell carcinoma of the oral commissure and lower lip. After resection, the defect was reconstructed using implanted AlloDerm for bulk, a buccal mucosal advancement flap, and a cheek rhomboid flap. Lip mobility and oral competence were normal 3 months postoperatively. The reconstruction achieved adequate augmentation without significant resorption. AlloDerm should be considered in primary lip reconstruction after cancer resection.