Extended, Double-Pedicled Facial Artery Musculomucosal (dpFAMM) Flap in Tongue Reconstruction in Edentulous Patients: Preliminary Report and Flap Design

Abstract

Backgroundand Objectives: The reconstruction of tongue defects after cancer resection is challenging for reconstructive surgeons. The facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) flap and the myomucosal buccinator flap (Bozola flap) are important tools in the reconstruction of intraoral defects. In this study, we describe the combination of both flaps—the extended, double-pedicled FAMM (dpFAMM) flap—and present clinical results of the reconstruction of moderate tongue defects in edentulous patients. Materials and Methods: a tongue defect, after squamous cell carcinoma excision, was reconstructed with the dpFAMM flap in 5 patients. Most of them received postoperative radiotherapy. Results: the healing process was uneventful in all patients. We did not observe flap necrosis or venous congestion. Tongue mobility, speech and swallowing were satisfactory. Conclusions: In conclusion, the dpFAMM flap is a good alternative in the reconstruction of moderate defects of the lateral part of the tongue. The flap is easy to harvest and has a good vascularity. This is a predictable method of reconstruction, especially for elderly patients with numerous comorbidities.