Submental flap: A reconstructive option in head and neck surgery

Objective: The submental flap is a fasciocutaneous flap used in head and neck reconstruction. The aim of this study was to share the indications and outcomes of submental flap reconstruction based on our experience. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on a group of 14 patients who underwent reconstructive surgery of the orofacial region with the submental flap. All reconstructions were performed following oncologic resections. Results: The submental flap was employed for the reconstruction of mobile tongue in 5 cases, maxilla and hard palate in 4 cases, cheek in 2 cases, floor of the mouth in 1 case, retromolar trigone in 1 case and oropharyngeal defects in 1 case. Satisfactory oral cavity opening was achieved in all cases. No transfer of metastatic lymph nodes to the recipient area was detected in this study. Conclusions: The submental flap significantly shortens the surgical time compared to microvascular flaps. In our experience, the necessity for neck lymph node surgery does not preclude the use of the submental flap. Meticulous dissection of the flap greatly reduces the risk of potential transfer of tumours through the flap to the recipient area.