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VOLUME 6 , ISSUE 1 ( January-June, 2022 ) > List of Articles

CASE REPORT

Anterior-based Tongue Flap for the Closure of Posterior Palatal Defect: A Case Report

Simarjit Singh, Amit Dhawan, Tejinder Kaur, Ramandeep Singh Bhullar, Sarika Kapila

Keywords : Facial artery musculomucosal flap, Palatal fistula, Tongue flap

Citation Information : Singh S, Dhawan A, Kaur T, Bhullar RS, Kapila S. Anterior-based Tongue Flap for the Closure of Posterior Palatal Defect: A Case Report. Curr Trends Diagn Treat 2022; 6 (1):12-14.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10055-0143

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 21-12-2022

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2022; The Author(s).


Abstract

Aim: The aim of this case report is to analyze the use of anterior-based tongue flaps for the closure of posterior palatal defects. Background: Palatal fistulas following trauma, benign or malignant pathology, and congenital defects are debilitating conditions rendering patients difficulty in swallowing and speech impairment. Reconstruction of such defects is challenging due to the scarcity of soft tissues for primary closure. Tongue flap has proved to be a safe and effective method of restoring functionality with acceptable donor site morbidity. Case description: In this study, the authors present a case in which an anterior-based tongue flap and facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) flap were used to close the posterior palatal fistula and oroantral communication, respectively. Conclusion: The tongue flap remains the flap of choice for managing anterior palatal fistulae, leaving apart its only drawback of two-staged procedure and transient patient discomfort. Clinical significance: Tongue flap, commonly termed “workhorse flap“ in the repair of palatal defects, is recommended provided that patient selection and surgical technique are meticulous.


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