Sensory recovery in melolabial flaps used for oral cavity reconstruction

Current literature advocates the use of complex reinnervated free flaps to re-establish oral sensation after resection of oral cavity cancers. It has been demonstrated that noninnervated flaps can also re-establish sensation. We assessed the return of sensation in local melolabial flaps used in oral reconstruction. Seven patients underwent sensory testing at intervals from 12 to 18 months after surgery. The ability to distinguish differences in t emperature was present in all patients. Spontaneous return of sensitivity t o touch was documented by clinical testing in 71% of the patients. Less ret urn of sensation was seen in flaps used for defects of the buccal mucosa re lative to the floor of mouth. We conclude that spontaneous return of flap s ensation does occur with local melolabial flaps. Given the simplicity of th ese procedures, melolabial flaps represent a reasonable alternative in floo r-of-mouth reconstruction for selected patients.