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Oral cavity reconstruction with the masseter flap.
R Mahieu1,2, S Russo3, T Gualtieri1
1Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Italy;
Summary
The masseter flap, an overlooked technique, offers a reliable solution for oral reconstruction. This simple method yields excellent functional and cosmetic results in selected head and neck cancer cases.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- The masseter flap is an infrequently utilized reconstructive technique for oral cavity defects.
- Reconstruction of oral defects, particularly after cancer treatment, requires reliable and functional methods.
Observation:
- The masseter crossover flap was successfully transposed in two patients with recurrent oral squamous cell carcinoma.
- Both patients had undergone prior treatments for their initial oral cancers.
Findings:
- Excellent functional outcomes and satisfactory cosmetic results were achieved in both reported cases.
- The masseter flap provides an elegant and simple reconstructive option, especially in cases unsuitable for microvascular surgery.
Implications:
- The masseter flap should be considered a viable option in the head and neck surgeon's armamentarium.
- This technique offers a valuable alternative for oral and oropharyngeal reconstruction in selected patients.
- Further investigation into the clinical utility of the masseter flap in modern reconstructive surgery is warranted.
