Reconstruction design before tumour resection: A new concept of through-and-through cheek defect reconstruction.

OBJECTIVE

To explore a new method of reconstruction of through-and-through cheek defects and to evaluate this method's efficacy and patient prognosis.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This retrospective study included 70 patients who underwent reconstruction of through-and-through cheek defects. The surgical approach, design of facial skin incisions, selection and design of flaps, postoperative quality of life and prognosis of patients were recorded and reported.

RESULTS

Postoperative quality of life gradually increased over time, and the mean scores of University of Washington Quality of Life (UW-QOL) Questionnaire was more than 80 at 1-year postoperatively. The appearance, oral competence, chewing, swallowing, speech and other oral functions were well recovered in about 90% of patients at 1-year postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

This new idea of reconstruction before tumour resection, brings the effect of plastic and reconstructive surgery to a new height.