Reconstruction of floor of mouth defects by the facial artery musculo-mucosal flap following cancer ablation.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study is to review our experience with the use of the facial artery musculo-mucosal (FAMM) flap for floor of mouth (FOM) reconstruction following cancer ablation to assess its reliability, associated complications, and functional results. METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of 61 FAMM flaps performed for FOM reconstruction from 1997 to 2006. RESULTS No total flap loss was observed. Fifteen cases of partial flap necrosis occurred, with 2 of them requiring revision surgery. We encountered 8 other complications, with 4 of them requiring revision surgery for an overall rate of revision surgery of 10% (6/61). The majority of patients resumed to a regular diet (85%), and speech was considered as functional and/or understandable by the surgeon in 93% of the patients. Dental restoration was successful for 83% (24/29) of the patients. CONCLUSION The FAMM flap is well suited for FOM reconstruction because it is reliable, has few significant complications, and allows preservation of oral function.