[The application of free tissue flap in simultaneous reconstruction of defects after tongue cancer].

OBJECTIVE

To discuss the feasibility of using free tissue flap for simultaneous tongue reconstruction after tongue cancer resection.

METHOD: Radial forearm flaps and anterolateral thigh flaps were used for simultaneous reconstruction of different defects after tongue cancer resection in 47 cases. The functional evaluation was assessed during the follow-up period of 3 months to 9 years.

RESULTS

Only one flap failed,giving a success rate of 97.7%. The 36 patient available for postoperative follow-up were all able to communicate in basic languages and eat normally. Among them, normal speech was found in 34, while slurred speech was found in two. 31 patients could eat normal diet ,while eight could eat soft diet and two could eat liquid diet.

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous tongue reconstruction with free tissue flap is a reliable method with high successful rate. Flaps selection based on different tongue defects is the key point to achieve good functional and cosmetic results for the reconstruction tongue.