ACQUIRED LIP DEFECTS

SURGICAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the functional outcome of large acquired lip
defects requiring flap reconstruction. Study design: Descriptive study. Setting: Shaikh
Zayed Postgraduate Medical Institute, Lahore. Period: January, 2011 to December, 2014.
Methodology: Large lip defects secondary to benign or malignant tumors which could not be
closed primarily or involving more than one tissue layer were included. Patients with history
of trauma or thermal injuries were excluded. Results: Twelve patients were included in the
study. Mean age group was 57.4 years (34 to 75); male to female ratio 1.4: 1; oral commissure
tissue deficiency (5 cases) was corrected with cheek advancement and rotation flaps; upper lip
defects (3 cases) were reconstructed with cheek advancement and lip switch flaps; for lower
lip repair (4 cases), Karapandzic flaps were the primary flaps utilized. Overall complication rate
was 16.6%. Partial wound dehiscence was seen in one patient (8.3%). Significant microstomia
requiring surgical correction was experienced in one patient. Conclusion: Lip reconstruction of
acquired defects can be achieved with good functional results by proper planning and judicious
use of remaining lip and local cheek tissue.