A compendium of intraoral flaps

Area of Science:

• Head and Neck Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Malignant tumors of the oral cavity, pharynx, and hypopharynx often require surgical resection.
• Reconstruction of resulting defects is crucial for functional recovery.
• Minimally invasive reconstructive techniques with good outcomes are highly sought after.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of intraoral flaps for reconstruction after tumor resection.
• To assess the functional outcomes and morbidity associated with intraoral flap use.
• To determine if intraoral flaps compromise oncologic resection principles.

Main Methods:

• Utilized intraoral flaps sourced from the tongue, buccal mucosa, and palate.
• Reconstructed defects following resection of small malignant tumors.
• Assessed functional rehabilitation (deglutition, speech) and patient morbidity.

Main Results:

• Intraoral flaps provided well-vascularized tissue for defect closure.
• Rapid rehabilitation of deglutition and speech was observed.
• Minimal morbidity and tension-free closure were achieved.
• Oncologic resection margins were not compromised.

Conclusions:

• Intraoral flaps are a valuable reconstructive option for oral, pharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal defects.
• They facilitate functional recovery with low morbidity.
• Their use is oncologically safe and avoids distant tissue transfers.