Functional lower lip reconstruction with the modified Bernard-Webster flap.

BACKGROUND: Lower lip defects after squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) excisions have been repaired by several surgical techniques. However, the functional reconstruction of full-thickness defects of the lower lip remains a therapeutic challenge. We therefore evaluated functional results of the modified Bernard-Webster flap for the reconstruction of full-thickness lower lip defects after SCC excisions.

METHODS: A prospective study was performed on all patients with lower lip full-thickness defects after SCC excisions greater than 1/3 of the lip, reconstructed with the modified Bernard-Webster flap in 2011-2013. Functional (sphincter, motor, and sensory functions) postoperative results were evaluated according to criteria previously adopted.

RESULTS: Twelve lower lip defects were reconstructed without complications, except for two (16.7%) wound dehiscence successfully managed. Ten (83.3%) patients presented transient and permanent functional abnormalities in the recent and late postoperative assessments. Ten (83.3%) patients classified the late functional results as satisfactory.

CONCLUSIONS: The modified Bernard-Webster flap proved to be an excellent alternative to repair full-thickness lower lip defects with more than 1/3 of the lower lip length, as it allowed the use of similar neighboring tissues, could be performed in one stage, and was functionally effective.