Nasolabial Flap Reconstruction for Orofacial Defects: A Case Series

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe our clinical experience with, and functional outcomes of the nasolabial flap for reconstruction of orofacial defects. Methods: Design: Retrospective Case Series Setting: Tertiary National University Hospital Participants: Records of 11 patients on whom a nasolabial flap was performed for reconstruction of head and neck defects between January 2013 and December 2018 were analyzed. Results: All patients underwent wide excision with or without frozen section, with or without neck dissection, and nasolabial flap closure was performed by a single surgeon. There were no major complications. In two cases, the nasolabial flap was used as an adjunct for Abbé and deltopectoral flap reconstruction. One had poor oral competence due to the bulk of the deltopectoral flap. Acceptable aesthetics and functional outcomes were achieved. Conclusion: The nasolabial flap is a viable alternative for reconstruction of orofacial defects following head and neck surgeries. Additional cases can help validate our initial experience

Keywords

• Nasolabial flap
• nasolabial fold
• orofacial defects
• oral and facial carcinoma
• mouth
• skin