Modified Individualized and Convenient Tongue Model for Total Tongue Reconstruction Using Profunda Artery Perforator Flap
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Published on: September 29, 2018
Yi-Ming Lei1, Wei-Xiang Sun2, Xu-Dong Zhang2
1From the Department of Interventional Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University.
Background:
Total tongue reconstruction is one of the most complex procedures in head and neck surgery. Achieving favorable functional outcomes requires a free flap with sufficient volume and precise design. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical application of the modified individualized and convenient tongue model (ICTM) technique for total tongue reconstruction using profunda artery perforator flaps (PAPFs).
Methods:
This retrospective study included 58 participants who underwent total tongue reconstruction with PAPFs between January of 2018 and December of 2023. Of these, 29 participants underwent reconstruction using the modified ICTM technique, whereas 29 received the conventional flap design. Functional and aesthetic outcomes were assessed using standardized evaluation scales. Statistical analysis was performed, with a P value of less than 0.05 considered significant.
Results:
PAPFs designed with the modified ICTM technique successfully reconstructed neotongues with improved volume, contour, and sustained protuberance compared with the conventional group. Participants in the modified ICTM group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in speech intelligibility ( P = 0.023), swallowing function ( P = 0.008), and appearance ( P = 0.001).
Conclusion:
For total tongue reconstruction, PAPFs designed with the modified ICTM technique offer superior closure of oropharyngeal wounds and enhanced functional and aesthetic outcomes compared with conventional flap designs.
