ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The myomucosal flap from the buccinator muscle is known to be useful for the reconstruction of intraoral defects. We used the buccinator myomucosal flap for the treatment of mild to moderate defects after intraoral tumor resection. This paper represents the versatility of the buccinator myomucosal flap for intraoral reconstruction and to introduce our clinical experience. METHODS: The flap was applied clinically in 5 patients to reconstruct intraoral defects from January, 1999 to December, 1999, with an average follow-up of 6 months. We evaluated these patients retrospectively. RESULTS: The buccinator myomucosal flap was used in the reconstruction of 5 defects of soft palate, retromolar trigone, and posterior pharyngeal wall. All flaps survived completely. There was no flap necrosis and fistula. The results were functionally and esthetically satisfactory. CONCLUSION: The buccinator myomucosal flap was used for mild to moderate intraoral defect reconstruction. It has many advantages and versatilities. It is reliable and safe. It does not require microsurgical technique, and rapid healing can be achieved due to its mucosal nature. The buccinator myomucosal flap, the only myomucosal flap that can be used for intraoral reconstruction, can be widely used.