Submental flap for reconstruction of anterior skull base, orbital, and high facial defects

Brent A. Chang, S. Ryan Hall, Brittany E. Howard, Gregory S. Neel, Carrlene Donald, Devyani Lal, Thomas H. Nagel, Richard E. Hayden

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose: Large anterior skull base, orbital, and high facial defects can present a challenging reconstructive problem. Limited data exists in the literature on the use of a submental flap for reconstructing such defects. We aimed to describe the feasibility, success, and advantages of using variations of the submental flap for reconstruction of anterior skull base, orbital, and high facial defects. Materials & methods: Outcomes measured included flap method, flap survival, flap size, reconstructive site complications, donor site complications, and length of hospital stay. Results: Nine patients were identified that underwent submental flap reconstruction of anterior skull base, orbital, or high facial soft tissue defects. There were 5 pedicled, 2 hybridized, and 2 free submental flap reconstructions. Flap survival was 100%. One flap required leech therapy for early post-operative venous congestion. Average flap skin paddle size was 63.7 cm 2 . Average length of hospital stay was 7.3 days. No complications from the donor site were reported. Conclusions: Different variations on the submental flap are viable options for reconstruction of high defects in the head and neck. Such flaps have a number of unique qualities that are suitable for reconstruction of anterior skull base, orbital, and high facial defects.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)218-223
Number of pages6
JournalAmerican Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Medicine and Surgery
Volume40
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 1 2019

Keywords

  • Anterior skull base reconstruction
  • Orbital reconstruction
  • Submental flap

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Otorhinolaryngology

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