Intraoral Reconstruction with Buccinator Myomucosal Flap

ABSTRACT

Since the buccinator myomucosal flap was first described, it has been modified, with the study of anatomical model. Therefore, buccinator myomucosal flap can be elevated in various direction according to defect with its sufficient arc of rotation. With the buccinator myomucosal flap, intraoral reconstruction was performed in 3 patients. Two adult patients were suffered from complete cleft palete. Partial tongue reconstruction was performed in another patient following partial glossectomy due to tongue cancer. Satisfied results were obtained in all three patients. In these cases, the author designed flaps in island patterns. It would be more helpful to close donor site primarily and obtaining free rotation arc. The pedicle was located in retromolar trigone, flap detachment was not needed. Considering the disadvantages of other reconstruction methods, such as contracture, hair growth and poor oral hygiene caused by skin graft or conventional free flap, the buccinator myomucosal flap would be another good option for intraoral reconstruction with "like tissue".