[The myo-mucosal buccinator island flap: indications and limits for the reconstruction of deficits of the buccal cavity of the oropharynx].
OBJECTIVE
To outline the indications and limits of the myo-mucosal buccinator island flap based on the facial artery in the reconstruction of deficits of the buccal cavity and lateral wall of the oropharynx following oncologic resection or radionecrosis.


METHODS
We retrospectively studied 40 patients. Flap is raised using a modified technique without Doppler or skin incision to identify the facial artery. This study identifies causes for failure and limits and indications for this flap.


RESULTS
We found a failure rate of 10% and an identical fistula rate. On the other hand success rate is over 95% when (1) permeability of the artery is confirmed preoperatively in post-neck dissection or post-radiation therapy patients and (2) the deficit does not cross the midline.


CONCLUSIONS
The myo-mucosal buccinator flap is a reliable technique. When specific indications are followed and the flap raised appropriately, the succes rate is 95%.
Céruse
Philippe
P
Service d'oto-rhino-laryngologie et de chirurgie cervico faciale, Centre hospitalier Lyon-sud, Pierre-Bénite, Lyon, France. philippe.ceruse@chu-lyon.fr
Ramade
Antoine
A
Dubreuil
Christian
C
Disant
François
F
D002610:Cheek / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D005145:Face / Q000098:blood supply; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009061:Mouth Mucosa; D009336:Necrosis / Q000601:surgery; D009959:Oropharyngeal Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery; D009960:Oropharynx / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D016896:Treatment Outcome