Submental artery island flap versus free flap reconstruction of lateral facial soft tissue and parotidectomy defects: Comparison of outcomes and patient factors

Complex parotid and lateral skull base defects represent a challenge for optimal reconstruction [1]. Additionally many of these patients will require adjuvant radiation and so it is prudent to utilize well-vascularized tissue to help minimize complications such as osteoradionecrosis and limit volume loss [2]. Historically, options were very limited or absent in regard to a local/regional tissue type that has the ideal volume and color match for complex lateral facial reconstruction.

Source: Oral Oncology - February 11, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Akshay V. Patel, Jason E. Thuener, Kate Clancy, Mustafa Ascha, Nauman F. Manzoor, Chad A. Zender Source Type: research