Oral cavity reconstruction using the free radial forearm flap

Area of Science:

• Reconstructive surgery
• Oral oncology
• Head and neck surgery

Background:

• Oral cavity cancer resection often leads to unsatisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes.
• Ideal reconstruction requires a reliable, single-stage flap with options for skin and/or bone, minimal donor-site morbidity.
• Existing flap options often fall short of ideal reconstructive goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the free radial forearm flap for oral cavity reconstruction.
• To highlight the flap's utility in complex cases, including those with prior surgery or irradiation.
• To emphasize the flap's role in head and neck reconstructive surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 15 free radial forearm flaps used in 14 patients for oral cavity defect reconstruction.
• Analysis of flap success rates, functional outcomes, cosmetic results, and hospital stay.
• Focus on patient populations with prior irradiation and surgical treatment.

Main Results:

• No flap failures were observed in 15 reconstructions.
• Reconstructions were performed in challenging patient groups (9/14 irradiated, 10/14 previously operated).
• Short hospital stays (<2 weeks), good cosmetic results, and successful oral intake resumption were noted.

Conclusions:

• The free radial forearm flap is a reliable and effective option for oral cavity reconstruction.
• It provides excellent functional and cosmetic results, even in patients with significant comorbidity.
• Further consideration of this flap in head and neck surgery is warranted.