Reconstruction of anterior floor of mouth defects by the local mandible myofascial flap following cancer ablation: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to review our experience with the use of the local mandible myofascial (LMM) flap for anterior floor of mouth (AFOM) reconstruction following cancer ablation to assess its reliability, associated complications and functional results.

METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of 13 LMM flaps (nine patients) performed for AFOM reconstruction from March 2010 to June 2012. All patients underwent surgical resection and immediate reconstruction with LMM flaps. They were followed up for 3-30 months to evaluate the survival rate of the flaps, mobility of tongue and aesthetic outcome of the lower lip and mental region.

RESULTS: All the flaps were successfully transferred. No obvious complications were found in either the AFOM or the donor region. The majority of patients resumed to a regular diet (89%, 8/9) and speech was considered as functional and/or understandable by the surgeon in all of the patients. Dental restoration was successful for 89% (8/9) of the patients. The shape and motion of the lower lip and the mental region of all patients were acceptable.

CONCLUSIONS: The LMM flap is well suited for AFOM reconstruction because it is reliable, has few significant complications and allows preservation of oral function.