Lower lip squamous cell carcinoma: a case report of surgical treatment with reconstruction using a bilateral Bernard-Webster flap

Abstract

Introduction. Although squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common oral cancer with distribution worldwide, the giant form of the disease is extremely rare, due to its easy detection and early diagnosis. The primary goal in tumor surgery is excision with borders clear of neoplasia. The second goal is aesthetics and function retention. The specific surgical approach is chosen according to the length, the thickness and the location of the lip defect. Case presentation. We present the case of a patient with squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip. In the reported case, the full thickness defect resulting from SCC excision, which affects more than one third of the length of the lower lip, had been reconstructed with the Bernard-Webster lid. Conclusions. Although the etiologic factors for squamous cell carcinoma are well-known, new prognostic factors for tumor differentiation, such as -catenin abnormal expression, and the negative impact on patient’s demographic characteristics are considered. Poor social conditions are to be considered as a potential risk factor for the development of giant forms of SCC in addition. Improving the quality of life of these patients would be essential to minimize risk factors for the development of the disease and to improve prognosis overall.

Keywords

• squamous cell carcinoma
• lower lip
• bernard-webster flap