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DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1729507
Function-Preserving Neurotized Lateral Arm Free Flap in the Reconstruction of Hemiglossectomy Defects
Abstract
Introduction and Methods The glabrous, thin, and pliable texture of lateral arm flap with no loss of any axial vessel of the limb renders it a good choice for hemiglossectomy defect reconstruction. The main caveat of this flap harvest is the loss of sensation in the distribution of posterior antebrachial cutaneous nerve (PABCN). In this article, we present two strategic sites and techniques to preserve the integrity of PABCN and at the same time harvesting lateral arm flap with a lengthy lower lateral cutaneous nerve of arm for the neurotization. The outcome of this function-preserving neurotized lateral arm free flap in the reconstruction of hemiglossectomy defects is analyzed and presented in this article.
Results Ninety percent of the patients attained grade 3 score in objective assessment, leading to a significant p-value of 0.02 with this technique. All had preservation of sensation in the distribution of PABCN.
Conclusion Our technique of harvest and neurotization has brought good functional recovery of the oral cavity with preservation of PABCN.
Keywords
lateral arm flap - neurotized flap - posterior antebrachial cutaneous nerve - fascicular dissection - hemiglossectomyPublication History
Article published online:
23 June 2021
© 2021. Association of Plastic Surgeons of India. This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonDerivative-NonCommercial-License, permitting copying and reproduction so long as the original work is given appropriate credit. Contents may not be used for commercial purposes, or adapted, remixed, transformed or built upon. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
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