Total lower lip reconstruction using sensate composite radial forearm flap

Area of Science:

• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• Oncology
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Reconstructing the lower lip requires balancing both aesthetic and functional outcomes.
• Various techniques exist for total lower lip reconstruction.
• The radial forearm flap is considered a promising option for post-tumor excision reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the sensate radial forearm-palmaris longus free flap for total lower lip reconstruction.
• To assess the aesthetic and functional results, including sensation, in patients with lower lip carcinoma.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 17 patients with lower lip squamous cell carcinoma underwent total lower lip reconstruction using a sensate radial forearm-palmaris longus free flap.
• Patients were followed for 1 to 3 years post-operatively.

Main Results:

• The study reported acceptable aesthetic outcomes and good sphincteric function.
• Sensation was preserved in the reconstructed lower lip.
• Complications were minimal, including partial flap loss in one patient and donor site graft loss in two patients. Infection occurred in one patient.
• No cases of wound dehiscence, fistula, suture abscesses, or sialocele were observed.

Conclusions:

• The sensate radial forearm flap is a viable and effective method for total lower lip reconstruction in patients with carcinoma.
• This flap technique achieves satisfactory aesthetic results, restores function, and provides sensation with a low complication rate.