Versatility of Forehead Flap in Maxillofacial/Nasal and Intraoral Defects: A Retrospective Analysis

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Difficulties to find the ideal donor site with perfect matching tissues have always made the reconstruction of facial complex defect a tough problem for surgeons. The main aim of reconstruction is to restore facial contour (esthetics) and function (mastication, deglutition, and speech). Aim: The aim of the study was to analyze the versatility of forehead flap in maxillofacial/nasal and intraoral defects. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted to analyze the versatility of forehead flap in maxillofacial/nasal and intraoral defects. A total of 25 consecutive patients, of either sex, who required soft tissue reconstruction of the maxillofacial region, including oral cavity and nasal defects due to tumor ablative surgery. Follow-up was done for up to 4 months – 1 year and on every follow-up visit, patients were questioned about the degree of satisfaction, with mouth opening, swallowing, and donor site esthetics. Cosmetic deformity judged subjectively. Results: Of 25 patients, 17 patients were males, 12 patients were above 60 years. Maximum number of site of tumor involvement was noted in cheek 9 patients (36%) and in lower lip 5 patients (20%). About 44% patient had stage 2 tumors and 28% had stage 3 tumors. About 18 patient had adjuvant radiation, 1 patients had chemo RT, and 6 patients had no adjuvant treatment. About 16% of patients had a complication of altered forehead sensation. Conclusion: Forehead flap is a reliable technique for the reconstruction of maxillofacial region defects. It is easy to rise and can provide coverage for wide defects as far as the para mandibular and submandibular regions. Moreover, it does not require patient repositioning.