Reconstruction for defects of the lower lip after tumor ablation.

BACKGROUND The lip carcinoma, which frequently affects the lower lip, is one of the most common cancers of the head and neck region composing 25% to 30% of all oral cancers. The accepted method of therapy for lip cancer is surgical excision and reconstruction. The repair should satisfy 2 fundamental requirements: to achieve appropriate aesthetic quality and to conserve labial function. Currently, a wide range of reconstructive procedures have been developed. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to summarize the clinical experience of reconstruction for lower lip defects to facilitate the selection of a proper reconstructive strategy for different conditions in clinical practice. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 43 patients who had undergone a standardized reconstructive approach based on the literature published and our own experience over the past 4 years. RESULTS Over an average period of 7.5 months' follow-up, recurrences or major complications did not happen, and most patients were satisfied with their functional and aesthetical outcome. Focusing on the location and the width of the defects of lower lip, a table has been exhibited to orient the surgeons to select a suitable reconstructive procedure for each patient. CONCLUSIONS Successful reconstruction of all defects can be attained, if as many surgical procedures as possible have been mastered, and a more proper means used.