[Application of hatchet flap for buccal tissue defect].

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Buccal tissue defects can result from trauma, cancer resection, or congenital anomalies.
• Reconstruction of these defects is crucial for restoring function and aesthetics.
• Existing reconstructive methods may have limitations in terms of donor site morbidity or functional outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of the hatchet flap for reconstructing buccal tissue defects.
• To assess the functional and aesthetic outcomes of the hatchet flap procedure.
• To determine the suitability of the hatchet flap for various sizes of buccal defects.

Main Methods:

• The hatchet flap was designed adjacent to the buccal tissue defect.
• The flap was advanced and sutured to cover the defect.
• Thirteen cases were treated using this technique between 2006 and the study period.

Main Results:

• All 13 cases achieved primary healing with no flap loss.
• Flap sizes ranged from 1.8 cm x 2.0 cm to 2.5 cm x 3.5 cm.
• Follow-up periods ranged from 3 months to 1.5 years, with satisfactory postoperative appearance and inconspicuous scarring.

Conclusions:

• The hatchet flap is a highly suitable method for correcting buccal tissue defects.
• The procedure yields satisfactory cosmetic results, preserving the natural facial contour.
• The hatchet flap offers a reliable option for buccal reconstruction with good aesthetic outcomes.