A Novel Technique to Convert Static Sling into a Dynamic Sling in Reconstruction of Total Lower Lip Defects Using...

Lower lip reconstruction has been a major challenge for the reconstructive surgeons since time immemorial. Various types of reconstruction had been described for the reconstruction of lower lip ranging from local flaps to free tissue transfer to free functioning muscle transfer. For complete lower lip defects, the free radial forearm flap with palmaris longus tendon has been the standard of reconstruction for many years. Literatures suggests various techniques for utilizing palmaris longus tendon sling as a static as well as dynamic structure. The limitation with static reconstruction is the loss of sling support with time leading to eversion and drooping of the reconstructed lower lip and drooling of saliva. In this article we describe a simpler and novel technique which converts static reconstruction into a dynamic one with a series of 5 patients. Aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the post operative functional and aesthetic outcome of our technique of total lower lip reconstruction using free radial forearm flap with palmaris longus sling reconstruction. The medical records included were demographics, including age, gender, and reason for the acquired defect, lip reconstructed, reconstructive method, flap survival, and outcomes. At 6 months follow up, all patients had satisfactory outcome and were able to take oral diets and none of the patients complained of drooling, an inability to eat in a public setting, or microstomia. This technique which is a simpler modification can be helpful in converting the traditional static sling reconstruction of lower lip into a dynamic one resulting in good aesthetic and functional outcomes.