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A Simplified Protocol for Protecting Palatal Soft Tissue Donor Sites Using an Oral Mucoadhesive Bandage
Published on: February 17, 2026
Donor site morbidity using the buccinator myomucosal island flap
Silvano Ferrari1, Andrea Ferri, Bernardo Bianchi
1Maxillo-Facial Surgery Division, Head and Neck Department, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy.
Summary
Donor site morbidity after harvesting a buccinator myomucosal island flap (BUMIF) for head and neck reconstruction is minimal. Careful management ensures excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes for tongue and floor of mouth defects.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Reconstruction of tongue and floor of mouth defects after oncological resections presents challenges.
- The buccinator myomucosal island flap (BUMIF) is a reconstructive option.
- Evaluating donor site morbidity is crucial for flap success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze donor site morbidity following BUMIF harvesting.
- To assess functional and esthetic outcomes of the BUMIF donor site.
- To confirm the flap's utility in head and neck reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 15 consecutive patients.
- Evaluation of donor site morbidity using 5 parameters: mouth opening, commissure symmetry, vestibule restoration, cheek lining, and esthetics.
- Blinded clinical assessment by 2 clinicians and the patient.
Main Results:
- High mean scores were reported for all evaluated parameters.
- Mouth opening: 8.6/9, commissure symmetry: 8.6/9, vestibule restoration: 8/9, cheek lining: 8.2/9, esthetics: 8.5/9.
- All parameters demonstrated excellent outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Donor site morbidity of the BUMIF is extremely low with careful management.
- The BUMIF allows for optimal functional and cosmetic results in reconstruction.
- The flap is a valuable option for moderate-sized defects of the tongue and floor of mouth.