Anterolateral thigh free flap in reconstruction of oral cavity malignancy: UMMC experience

Author: Ahmad NA ; Margaret L
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Anterolateral thigh free fl ap, head and neck reconstructive surgery
From:Journal of University of Malaya Medical Centre 2008;11(1):33-36
CountryMalaysia
Language:English
Abstract: Oral cavity malignancy reconstructive surgery has advanced from pedicle fl aps to microvascular free tissue transfer. Previously, reconstruction of these defects were done using radial forearm free fl ap in this centre. We report our experience using anterolateral thigh free fl ap in a 49 year old lady with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue. Excision of tumour left a defect which was later reconstructed using microvascular free tissue transfer using the right anterolateral thigh free fl ap. The fl ap was well taken up at the recepient site and no evidence of fl ap failure noted post operatively and on completion of radiotherapy. She was able to maintain comprehensible speech and swallowing ability.