[Free medial thigh chimeric myocutaneous perforator flap for the reconstruction of tongue defect after tongue carcinoma resection].

Objective

To investigate the application of free medial thigh chimeric myocutaneous perforator flap in the reconstruction of tongue defect after radical resection of tongue carcinoma.

Methods

From June 2013 to November 2015, 17 cases with tongue carcinoma underwent radical resection and tongue and mouth floor defects after surgery were reconstructed with medial thigh chimeric myocutaneous perforator flaps at the same stage. These 17 cases included tongue carcinoma on lingual margin (n=9), ventral tongue (n=7) and mouth floor (n=1). Appearance and functional results were evaluated with follow-up.

Results

Medial thigh chimeric myocutaneous perforator flap was (9.0±0.3) cm in length, (4.5±0.3) cm in width , and (1.8±0.4) cm in thickness. The length of pedicle was (7.4±0.6) cm. All of the 17 flaps survived uneventfully, and the donor sites were closed directly in all cases. All patients were followed up for 10-28 months with satisfied esthetic and functional results in reconstructed tongue. Aside from linear scar in the donor sites, the functions of thighs were not affected. No local recurrence occurred.

Conclusion

The free medial thigh chimeric myocutaneous perforator flap is an ideal choice to reconstruct the tongue and mouth floor defect after radical resection of tongue carcinoma.