Radial forearm free flap: A dynamic flap for single-staged multiple subunit reconstruction.

Area of Science:

• Oral oncology and reconstructive surgery
• Head and neck cancer management
• Microsurgical techniques in plastic surgery

Background:

• Squamous cell carcinoma of the buccal mucosa is a common oral malignancy.
• Large defects involving the buccal mucosa, upper lip, and lower lip pose significant reconstructive challenges.
• Current reconstructive options require specialized techniques for optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Observation:

• A middle-aged patient with biopsy-proven squamous cell carcinoma of the buccal mucosa presented with extensive defects.
• The defect involved the buccal mucosa, left oral commissure, upper lip, and lower lip.
• Surgical excision was followed by reconstruction using a free flap technique.

Findings:

• A specially designed radial forearm free flap was utilized for the complex reconstruction.
• The radial forearm free flap facilitated the restoration of both aesthetic appearance and oral function.
• The patient achieved a favorable outcome following the reconstructive procedure.

Implications:

• This case highlights the efficacy of free flap reconstruction for extensive head and neck defects.
• Radial forearm free flaps offer a viable option for complex oral and facial reconstructions.
• Successful reconstruction can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with oral cancer.