title: Reconstruction of major orbital-maxillary defects with free latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap.
abstract: Reconstruction following excision of tumors of the orbital-maxillary region represents a challenge to the head and neck surgeons. Microvascular techniques have significantly improved the possibilities of an adequate three-dimensional repair. Among the different available options, the latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap (LDMF) has been considered, as it seems to fulfill the requirements for a functional obliterations of the orbital-maxillary cavity and to restore the facial contour. Two cases of large orbital-maxillary defects repaired with a LDMF are reported; in one of them the intraoral palatal competence and lining were achieved through a temporalis muscle flap. Technical remarks are presented and discussed as well as the indications and possibilities for more sophisticated reconstructions, aimed at a better cosmetic outcome.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Piantanida
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Roselli
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Pellini
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Ferrario
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Boschini
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Spriano
mesh_terms: D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000601:surgery; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000601:surgery; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008437:Maxilla / Q000601:surgery*; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000637:transplantation; D009915:Orbit / Q000601:surgery*; D016038:Skin Transplantation; D013524:Surgical Flaps