Outcomes of Using Nasolabial Flap for Orofacial Reconstruction: A Retrospective Descriptive Case Series

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Orofacial defects require effective reconstructive solutions.
• The nasolabial flap is a versatile option for soft-tissue reconstruction.
• Understanding flap design and vascular considerations is key to successful outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate clinical outcomes, complication rates, and flap survival of the nasolabial flap.
• To assess the impact of flap design (tunneled island vs. pedicled) and facial artery ligation.
• To analyze the efficacy of nasolabial flaps in reconstructing diverse orofacial defects.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective descriptive study of 20 cases (2017-2025).
• Nasolabial flap used for defects from oral cancer, osteonecrosis, trauma, and oronasal fistulas.
• Analysis of flap design and facial artery ligation impact.

Main Results:

• All flaps survived with satisfactory functional and esthetic results.
• 17 cases used tunneled island flaps for intraoral reconstruction; 3 used pedicled flaps for lip reconstruction.
• Low complication rates: 5% partial dehiscence, 10% distal necrosis (associated with ligated facial artery and random-pattern tunneled flaps).

Conclusions:

• The nasolabial flap is a reliable method for orofacial reconstruction.
• Flap survival is high, with good functional and esthetic outcomes.
• Caution is advised regarding blood supply in tunneled island flaps with facial artery ligation.