Extension of the facial artery musculomucosal flap to reconstruct a defect of the soft palate

Abstract

Reconstruction after resection of a large oropharyngeal tumour poses a difficult challenge. This case illustrates an extension of the previously described facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) flap, whereby a defect of the soft palate is replaced with a similar trilaminar structure in the form of irradiated, redundant lower lip. This allows not only the treatment of the palatal defect, but also management of dribbling secondary to a marginal mandibular palsy.

Key Words::

• FAMM flap
• opportunism
• plate reconstruction