RECONSTRUCTION OF TONGUE DEFECT WITH SUBMENTAL FLAP AFTER TUMOR RESECTION

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the reconstruction of tongue defects with submental flap after tumor resection. Methods: This is a retrospective and prospective study for 12 patients diagnosed with tongue cancer who underwent extensive tumor resection and reconstruction of tongue defects with submental flap at the Center for Craniofacial and Plastic Surgery - 108 Military Central Hospital, from January 2019 to March 2022. Results: The study included 10 male patients (83.3%) and 2 female patients (16.7%), with an average age of 54.83. The average size of the defect is 54.4x 30.2mm. The submental flap for reconstruction had an average size of 69.6x39.6mm. After surgery, the survival rate of the flap was 100%, partial necrosis was 7.1%, damage to the mandibular branch was 7.1%. Resumption of completely normal speech function accounted for 66.7%, normal diet accounted for 58.4%, no patient had completely lost speech or swallowing function. Conclusion: The submental flap has many advantages in reconstructing tongue defects after small-size tumor resection, including simple technique and suitable size. Reconstructive results show the good restoration of the patients' speech and swallowing functions.