OBJECTIVETo evaluate the role of buccal-fat-pad flap in the lined coverage of the maxillary bone graft for the maxillary reconstruction after the tumor excision.

METHODSBased on the cadaver anatomical observation of the buccal-fat-pad, 38 patients with the maxillary tumors were undertaking the treatment in this paper. Under general anesthesia, the buccal-fat-pad flap was elevated and transferred to the anterior or nasal cavities as a line of the sinus after the tumor was immediately excised through an intro-oral or external approach. The bone from the ribs was then grafted in the place for the maxillary support.

RESULTSAfter the anatomical evaluation, 38 patients were carried out the operation successfully. All of the grafted bones were well covered without bone exposure. The aesthetic appearance was achieved.

CONCLUSIONBone graft lined by the pedicled buccal fat pad flap may be a safe and good method for reconstruction of the maxilla with a lower rate of re-absorption and sequestration.

Adipose Tissue ; transplantation ; Aged ; Bone Transplantation ; methods ; Cheek ; Humans ; Maxilla ; surgery ; Maxillary Neoplasms ; surgery ; Oral Surgical Procedures ; methods ; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures ; methods ; Ribs ; transplantation ; Surgical Flaps