Aesthetic and Functional Outcome Following Perioral Defect Reconstruction Using the Facial Artery Perforator Flap

David Krijgh, Marc Mureau

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

10 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background The facial artery perforator (FAP) flap was developed to facilitate reconstruction of perioral defects. Several studies reported promising results on the feasibility of using a FAP flap for this purpose, however, objective long-term outcome data are lacking. This study presents the aesthetic and functional outcome after reconstruction of perioral defects using a FAP flap. Methods Between May 2001 and March 2009, 13 patients underwent perioral reconstruction with the use of a FAP flap. A panel consisting of five independent plastic surgeons rated the postoperative photographs based on a standardized questionnaire containing 5-point Likert scale questions and yes-or-no questions. In addition, the patients were contacted in March 2011 to give answers to a similar questionnaire over the telephone. Results Panel as well as patient reported questionnaire results demonstrated satisfying functional and aesthetic outcome after perioral reconstruction with a FAP flap. There was a high level of agreement amongst panel members, as judged by a low inter-rater variability. Discussion Previous studies suggested that the FAP flap is a valuable addition to facial reconstructive surgery. The results of the present study indicate that both aesthetic and functional outcomes are satisfying following perioral defect reconstruction using a FAP flap.
Original languageUndefined/Unknown
Pages (from-to)529-537
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Reconstructive Microsurgery
Volume28
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012

Research programs

  • EMC NIHES-01-50-01-A

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