A novel application of superior thyroid artery perforator flaps for medium-sized intraoral reconstructions: Retrospective analysis of 12 cases.

BACKGROUND: To describe the indications, technique, and preliminary experience in the application of the superior thyroid artery perforator flap (STAPF) for the reconstruction of various medium-sized intraoral defects. METHODS: From September 2018 to September 2019, 12 consecutive cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma underwent reconstruction with a STAPF. Clinical details were collected, and postoperative function was analyzed. RESULTS: The venous drainage of the STAPF is variable with drainage into the internal jugular vein in six cases, into both the internal and external jugular veins in four cases, and into the external jugular vein in two cases. Ten cases were harvested as pedicled flaps, while two cases required a venous anastomosis due to inadequate length of the venous pedicle. Ten flaps survived completely, whereas two flaps had partial necrosis that ultimately resolved with secondary healing. CONCLUSIONS: STAPF is a reliable method for the reconstruction of medium-sized intraoral defects.