Two cases of prostheses for flap protection after buccal mucosal incision

Here we describe two patients in whom prostheses were applied for flap protection after buccal mucosal incision. In the first case, the patient was a 65-year-old man with a diagnosis of buccal mucosa squamous cell carcinoma (T2N0M0). Left buccal mucosa squamous cell tumor resection and dermoplasty were performed, followed by alveolar ridge augmentation and buccal mucosal graft in the scar area. The carcinoma recurred, however, and left buccal mucosa carcinoma resection was performed, followed by reconstruction surgery using a free forearm flap. After a 12-week healing period, a molar support was constructed on the unaffected side and a protective prosthesis placed on the affected side. Training in ingestion and swallowing were given postoperatively. The patient in the second case was a 62-year-old woman with a diagnosis of buccal mucosa squamous cell carcinoma (T2N1M0). Right buccal mucosa carcinoma resection and supraomohyoid neck dissection were performed, followed by reconstruction surgery using a free forearm flap. A molar support was constructed on the unaffected side and a protective prosthesis placed on the affected side at 5 months postoperatively. Training was given in ingestion and swallowing postoperatively. The prostheses prevented bite wounds to the flaps in the affected areas due to jaw movement during swallowing or speaking. The postoperative courses were uneventful, and the average masticatory score was 92.5 (85, 100), not affecting daily life. The prostheses were placed after reconstruction surgery using free flaps after buccal mucosa squamous cell carcinoma resection. Dysphasia recovered to the preoperative level by dysphasia and pronunciation training in both cases. The postoperative prognosis was favorable, with the prosthesis preventing damage to the flap.