Heterogeneity of Nasolabial Flap- Role in Prevention of Morbidity Associated with Reconstruction of Orofacial Defects

Reconstructive technique after surgical excision of malignancy in orofacial region should be planned in preoperative period itself. Surgery is the preferred modality of treatment if the tumour is small and located in an accessible area. Nasolabial flap is a versatile flap which is well suited to cover small defects in maxillofacial region. Nasolabial flap can be used as an alternative to other distant pedicled flaps in selected cases. A retrospective analysis of 12 cases of oral cancer treated with primary excision and reconstruction using nasolabial flap was done. Patients who underwent resection of tumour and reconstruction with nasolabial flap in selected cases reduced the morbidity associated with Distant pedicled flaps. Two selected cases are described in detail.