Functional outcomes in tongue reconstruction with myomucosal buccinator flaps

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Oncology

Background:

• Buccal myomucosal local flaps are utilized for oral cavity reconstruction.
• Limited data exists on the functional recovery associated with these flaps.
• Assessing functional outcomes and quality of life is crucial for patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functional recovery after buccal myomucosal flap reconstruction in oral cavity defects.
• To assess the impact of these flaps on patients' quality of life.
• To analyze functional outcomes in tongue cancer patients undergoing reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 36 patients treated for tongue cancer (2012-2018).
• Functional outcomes assessed using validated questionnaires: Performance Status Scale, M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory, Speech Handicap Index, and EORTC QLQ-C30 H&N35.
• Data collection focused on diet, speech, and overall quality of life.

Main Results:

• Patients achieved the ability to consume soft to solid foods, with most eating comfortably in public.
• 50% experienced some dysphagia, but it did not significantly affect self-esteem or social interactions.
• 20% reported severe speech difficulties, and 65% had oral problems.

Conclusions:

• Buccal myomucosal flaps are suitable for tongue reconstruction.
• The majority of patients experience good functional recovery and satisfactory quality of life post-reconstruction.
• While functional recovery is generally positive, it does not fully restore pre-surgical function.