Functional Outcomes Following Nasolabial Flap Reconstruction in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Prospective Clinical Evaluation

Abstract

Background: Restoration of oral function is a primary objective following surgical resection of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Reconstruction of intraoral defects should aim not only to restore anatomy but also to preserve essential functions such as speech, swallowing, and mouth opening. The nasolabial flap (NLF) is a reliable regional flap widely used for small‑to‑medium intraoral defects; however, evidence focusing specifically on functional outcomes remains limited. Objective: To evaluate postoperative functional outcomes following intraoral reconstruction using the nasolabial flap in patients undergoing surgical treatment for OSCC. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dhaka Dental College and Hospital, from January 2017 to December 2018. Twenty patients with histopathologically confirmed OSCC underwent tumor resection followed by nasolabial flap reconstruction. Functional outcomes were assessed six weeks postoperatively and included interincisal mouth opening, swallowing ability, speech intelligibility, flap surface texture, and patient satisfaction. Results: Adequate interincisal mouth opening (>35 mm) was preserved in 19 patients (95%). Mild difficulty in swallowing was observed in one patient (5%). Speech impairment occurred in one patient (5%). The flap surface texture was smooth and well adapted in 19 cases (95%). Patient satisfaction was high, with 95% of patients reporting satisfactory functional outcomes. Conclusion: Nasolabial flap reconstruction provides excellent functional outcomes following OSCC surgery. High preservation rates of speech, swallowing, and mouth opening, along with favorable flap adaptation, support its continued use as a reliable reconstructive option for small‑to‑medium intraoral defects.

Journal of Dentistry and Allied Science, Vol. 9 No 1: 32-36