Evaluation of Functional and Esthetic Outcomes in Oral Cancer Patients Reconstructed with Medial Sural Artery Perforator Free Flap.

[BACKGROUND] Reconstruction with medial sural artery perforator flap is gaining popularity and is subject of study since a decade in oral squamous cell carcinoma cases. This flap is proving to have more benefits over other free flap reconstructive options. Our study presents an evaluation of functional and esthetic outcomes in a large number of OSCC patients reconstructed with MSAP flaps.

[MATERIAL AND METHODS] Total number of 120 patients from 2020 to 2022 with OSCCs underwent reconstruction using MSAPs. The carcinoma involved buccal mucosa, tongue, floor of mouth. Pre- and intra-operative parameters were evaluated along with complications. Functional evaluation in terms of speech and diet was carried out. Patient's visual analog scores (VAS) were recorded for esthetic evaluation.

[RESULTS] Only 10 cases showed failure due to venous and arterial congestion. Normal speech with unrestricted diet intake was achieved in majority of the patients. Primary closure was performed at the donor site in 98.3% of patients, which showed good esthetic results.

[CONCLUSION] MSAP flap is a versatile reconstructive method for small to medium defects in oral and maxillofacial region. The flap is less bulky, has a longer vascular pedicle, is pliable and has minimum donor site morbidity.