Forearm flap in oral cavity reconstruction : A functional evaluation

Forearm flap were performed in 100 patients between 1988 and 1998. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term results of forearm flaps used for reconstrution of the oral cavity with regard to sensory function, histological observation, and performance status. The restitution of the cutaneous sensibility in forearm flaps was performed more than 60 months later. Histologic evaluation of biopsy specimens from forearm flaps was made one month to 75 months after intraoral reconstruction. As the histological findings indicated long-term chronological observations of forearm flaps were conducted. It was revealed that flap tissue begins mucosa-like change about ten months after grafting. Interview was conducted to ascertain the degree of articulation and mastication. The clarity of conversation recovered favorably in most patients, and the degree of recovery was generally related to the time since surgery. Application of the forearm flap has enabled morphological and functional recovery.