Available Reconstruction Algorithms for Ablative Oral Cavity Defect. A Review of the Literature

Chatzistefanou I*, Pyraki M, Mitsaki E, Kiakou M, Papadiochos I and Petsinis V

Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Attikon General University Hospital, Athens Medical School, GRC,
Greece
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
ENT, St George's Hospital, London, GBR

^*Correspondance to: Ioannis Chatzistefanou 

 PDF  Full Text DOI: 10.25107/2474-1647.3737

Abstract

Introduction: Functional and aesthetic reconstruction of anatomic defects following ablative surgery is crucial for the successful treatment in current patients with head and neck pathology. The overall patient rehabilitation and postoperative quality of life should guide the reconstruction decisions and choices. Locoregional tissue transfer or free composite tissue transfer from distant sites has provided a variety of options for accomplishing these goals. Methods: We provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature for available reconstructive algorithms, in addition to our experience in repairing surgical defects following ablative surgery in the oral/head and neck area using such algorithms. Main advantages and limitations of this technique are also discussed in detail. Results: The type, size, and location of every individual defect requiring reconstruction guide the available reconstruction options. The current trend is to prefer local or regional flaps, keeping free tissue transfer for specific difficult-to-repair cases. Conclusion: Today, meeting oral cancer patients' reconstructive expectations after tumour resection is a challenge for current reconstructive head and neck surgeons. With various reconstructive options available, it is crucial for the patient's post-surgery quality of life to adapt the most appropriate technique that meets the unique demands of each case.  

Keywords

Reconstruction; Guidelines; Algorithm’s; Oral cancer; Local flaps; Regional flaps; Free flaps

Cite the article

Chatzistefanou I, Pyraki M, Mitsaki E, Kiakou M, Papadiochos I, Petsinis V. Available Reconstruction Algorithms for
Ablative Oral Cavity Defect. A Review of the Literature. Clin Surg. 2026; 10: 3737.