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Lateral arm free flap in oral cavity reconstruction: A functional evaluation
Author(s) -
Matloub Hani S.,
Larson David L.,
Kuhn Joan C.,
Yousif N. John,
Sanger James R.
Publication year - 1989
Publication title -
head and neck
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.012
H-Index - 127
eISSN - 1097-0347
pISSN - 1043-3074
DOI - 10.1002/hed.2880110303
Subject(s) - swallowing , glossectomy , articulation (sociology) , oral cavity , tongue , free flap , medicine , free flap reconstruction , surgery , computer science , physical medicine and rehabilitation , orthodontics , pathology , politics , political science , law
Abstract By use of sophisticated techniques now available from the science of Speech Pathology, we can now document, quantify, and critically analyze the surgeon's reconstructive efforts in the oral cavity. Using these methods, we have evaluated the neurotized lateral arm free flap in six patients receiving oral reconstruction. Two of these are reported in detail. This study has provided a protocol that results in the objective analysis of swallowing, articulation, and range of tongue motion and sensation. All of these tests can be routinely performed by a speech pathologist to document both operative performance as well as patient progress in speech and swallowing. It would appear that we have quantified evidence that the neurotized lateral arm free flap may represent a significant step forward in reducing the morbidity of total and subtotal glossectomy by providing a truly functional reconstruction.