The submental island flap for the treatment of XXXX : No effect on recurrence rates.

@entity1 @entity154 @entity4294 @entity5 @entity3
OBJECTIVES: The submental island flap has become increasingly popular in the treatment of @entity154 following @entity5 ablation. However, there was concern that the elevation of the pedicled flap might interfere with the efficiency of level I-lymph node dissection and decrease the oncologic prognosis of the @entity1 . MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a prospective clinical study over five years the outcome of 45 consecutive @entity1 with @entity5 of various T-stages treated with @entity4294 was evaluated and compared to 45 @entity1 with a @entity5 treated with free radial forearm flaps. RESULTS: All @entity4294 beside three were successful (93.3%). The obtained functional results were pleasing and the donor morbidity low. @entity1 treated with @entity4294 exhibited no enhanced risk of local @entity5 recurrence or lymph node @entity3 (p<0.86). In contrast, the operation time, time of intensive care and hospitalization were reduced (p<0.001). DISCUSSION: We conclude that the submental island flap is an effective and predictable option of small and medium-sized oral defect treatment. It is a valuable alternative to free flap soft tissue reconstructions such as radial forearm or perforator flaps. It seems particularly beneficial to @entity1 with relevant comorbidities as often present in the @entity5 population. The application of the submental island flap does not reduce the oncological prognosis of @entity5 @entity1 .
