Nasolabial musculocutaneous flap in reconstruction of oral defects

Modern day understanding of the microcirculation of musculocutaneous flaps has initiated this reconsideration of the nasolabial flap with the context of modern flap physiology and nomenclature. Surgical incorporation of the circumoral and facial muscles within the skin of the overlying nasolabial groove constitute a musculocutaneous flap based upon the underlying facial vessels. This thick musculocutaneous flap provides an extremely reliable vascularity for reconstruction of the floor of the mouth and oral sphincter in a one-stage procedure. The donor nasolabial flap is easily accessible in the same surgical field and may be obtained with minimal donor area morbidity. Cosmetic and functional impairment are minimal. Anterior tongue mobility for articulation is preserved. Eleven nasolabial flaps for oral reconstruction following burn reconstruction as well as resections for carcinomas of the labial and oral areas are presented.