Surgical Management of Oro-Nasal Communication in Cocaine-Induced Lesions: Temporalis Muscle Flap with Le Fort I Osteotomy.

Background

Cocaine is a recreational drug known for its negative impact on health and social and economic life. One of the complications for cocaine abusers is cocaine-induced midline destructive lesion (CIMDL) syndrome, which includes the extensive destruction of the osteocartilaginous structures of the nose, the sinus, and the palate.

Methods

Here, we describe three cases of the surgical management of CIMDL using a temporalis muscle flap combined with a Le Fort I osteotomy, which allows sufficient space for the muscle to settle.

Results

The addition of the osteotomy allowed better handling of the pedicled flap, with no signs of relapse in the reported cases and high patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

CIMDL syndrome is an impairing disease that negatively affects the functionality of the nasal and oral cavities, as well as the aesthetic. Surgical repair using a pedicled flap is a valid option in rehabilitated and sober patients with endothelial damage.