Author:
Ma Jingxin,Zhai Xuefan,Huang Min,Li Peiyao,Liang Yujie,Ouyang Daiqiao,Su Yu-xiong,Yang Wei-fa,Liao Guiqing,Zhang Sien
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Oncologic risk is a serious concern of submental artery island flaps. Here, we introduce the contralateral-based submental artery island flap (C-SAIF) and demonstrate its feasibility and long-term oncological safety in reconstructing oral cancer–related defects.
Methods
An anatomical study was performed concentrating on the pedicle length in seven cadavers. Then, a retrospective study was carried out on C-SAIF patients operated on by a single team. The standard surgical technique of C-SAIF was conducted. Outcomes including operative time, length of hospital stay, volume of intraoperative blood loss, and scores of the Multidisciplinary Salivary Gland Society (MSGS) questionnaire were compared with a similar cohort reconstructed with anterolateral thigh free flap (ALTF). In addition, oncological outcomes were evaluated by the 5-year cumulative survival rate between C-SAIF and ALTF patients.
Results
The pedicle length of C-SAIF was sufficient for the flap to be extended to the contralateral oral cavity. Fifty-two patients were included in the retrospective study, and nineteen of them underwent reconstruction with C-SAIF. The operative time of C-SAIF was shorter (p = 0.003), and the intraoperative blood loss was less (p = 0.004) than that of ALTF. There was no difference in MSGS scores. The results of survival analysis revealed comparable survival curves for the two groups in terms of overall survival, disease-specific survival, and disease-free survival.
Conclusion
C-SAIF is a feasible and reliable flap for reconstructing oral cancer–related defects. Moreover, it is an effective island flap to preserve the perforator and pedicle without compromising oncological safety.
Funder
National Natural Science Foundation of China
Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC