Nasolabial flap reconstruction in oral cancer

BACKGROUND The nasolabial flap is a simple flap used for reconstructing small intraoral defects created after the excision of malignant tumors. METHODS A retrospective analysis of 26 cases of oral cancer treated with primary excision and nasolabial flap reconstruction was carried out. In 22 cases, the excision was combined with neck dissection and facial artery ligation. RESULTS Good cosmetic and functional results were obtained in almost all cases. Wound dehiscence developed in three patients, while one patient developed a persistent orocutaneous fistula. Disease recurrence occurred in one patient. CONCLUSIONS The nasolabial flap is a good flap for the reconstruction of small oral defects after excision of primary tumors and results in good overall cosmetic and functional outcome.