Management
In a retrospective study of 131 flaps, including 53 soleus, 47 peroneal, 18 medial sural, and 13 lateral superficial sural artery perforator flaps, used for intraoral reconstruction, the authors report favorable outcomes [PMID:29249632].
Between February 2001 and April 2008, 14 cases of perioral soft tissue reconstruction using submental tissues (composite graft, local advancement flap, pedicled flap, free flap) resulted in no major complications and excellent aesthetic results [PMID:22627409].
The study utilized different techniques (composite graft, local advancement flap, pedicled flap, free flap) for defects on the upper lip, mentum, and oral commissure, demonstrating versatility and effectiveness [PMID:22627409].
Complications
The study highlights difficulties and complications during flap raising and transfer, though specific complication rates are not detailed for each flap type [PMID:29249632].
During follow-up periods of 9 months to 5 years, no major complications were noted, and donor site scars were inconspicuous and did not restrict neck motion [PMID:22627409].
Prognosis & Follow-up
Clinical examination during the first postoperative year indicated that patients retained their ability to speak and swallow, with satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes at donor sites [PMID:29249632].
References
1 Wolff KD, Rau A, Kolk A. Perforator flaps from the lower leg for intraoral reconstruction: Experience of 131 flaps. Journal of cranio-maxillo-facial surgery : official publication of the European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery 2018. link 2 Jeong SH, Lee BI. Versatile use of submental tissue for reconstruction of perioral soft tissue defects. The Journal of craniofacial surgery 2012. link
2 papers cited of 3 indexed.