Vol. 5, Issue 1, Part E (2019)

Introduction: This article describes the use of nasolabial flaps in the reconstruction of various oral cavity defects which is a very useful and simple alternative to other pedicled and free flaps.

Methods: 16 patients were operated for oral cancers & reconstruction of defects was done using a nasolabial flap. A retrospective data analysis was done using data from patient medical records, including data on underlying pathology, defect size and location, surgical technique of flap harvesting.

Results: The patient group consisted of 16 patients out of which 10 were male and 6 were female, with a mean age of 51 years (range 30- 70 years). They were operated for oral cavity cancer at different sites and reconstruction was done using nasolabial flap. Complications includes erythema in 3 cases, hematoma in 2 cases, wound infection in 3 cases, Drooling of saliva in 4 cases, whistle deformity in 2 cases, partial flap necrosis in 1 case, total flap necrosis in 1 case, grade I trismus in 3 case & grade II trismus in 1 case.

Conclusion: The nasolabial flap has proved to be a useful and reliable alternative for smaller to medium size defects with minimal complications and good functional and aesthetic outcomes.