Application of a chimeric ALT perforator flap with vastus lateralis muscle mass in the reconstruction of the defects after radical resection of a buccal carcinoma: A retrospective clinical study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Aggressive resection of buccal cancer simultaneously leaves both oral and lateral facial defects. It is unknown whether a perforator-based chimeric anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap, with a muscular component, is suitable for the reconstruction of these complicated defects. METHODS: In this retrospective study, 48 patients with a buccal carcinoma (T2 N0-1 M0), who underwent extensive surgical resection, were enrolled. Twenty-seven cases underwent reconstruction using the classical ALT perforator flap (classical group), and 21 cases used the chimeric ALT perforator flap with vastus lateralis muscle mass (chimeric group). The incidence of wound infection, lower limb extremity function, facial appearance, survival curves, and quality of life were compared between groups. RESULTS: The incidence of wound infection or effusion was lower in the chimeric group than in the classical group. The aesthetic result achieved in the chimeric group was better than in the classical group. Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in the function of the donor site between groups. CONCLUSIONS: The chimeric ALT perforator flap, with a muscular component, can reconstruct both the oral and lateral face defects accurately. It sustains the profile of the lateral face and decreases the incidence of wound infection.