An overview of current assessment techniques for evaluating cutaneous perfusion in reconstructive surgery.

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of modern techniques used in the assessment of cutaneous flaps in reconstructive surgery. It emphasizes the importance of preoperative planning and intra- and perioperative assessment of flap perfusion to ensure successful outcomes. Despite technological advancements, direct clinical assessment remains the gold standard. We categorized assessment techniques into non-invasive and invasive modalities, discussing their strengths and weaknesses. Non-invasive methods, such as acoustic Doppler sonography, near-infrared spectroscopy, hyperspectral imaging thermal imaging, and remote-photoplethysmography, offer accessibility and safety but may sacrifice specificity. Invasive techniques, including contrast-enhanced ultrasound, computed tomography angiography, near-infrared fluorescence angiography with indocyanine green, and implantable Doppler probe, provide high accuracy but introduce additional risks. We emphasize the need for a tailored decision-making process based on specific clinical scenarios, patient characteristics, procedural requirements, and surgeon expertise. It also discusses potential future advancements in flap assessment, including the integration of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

Soft palate resection and secondary healing not to impair the velopharyngeal function? - Diagnosis and treatment of an intraoral schwannoma: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Schwannomas are benign lesions arising from the nerve sheath, commonly located in the head and neck. Intraoral schwannomas mostly occur in tongue and lips and are rarely located in the soft palate. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We describe the diagnostic assessment and treatment of 18-year old male presenting with an intraoral mass on the soft palate. DISCUSSION: The treatment of choice in peripheral nerve sheath tumors is conservative resection and due to location and impairment, reconstruction. Secondary healing of soft palate defects is rarely described in the literature. CONCLUSION: With this case report, we demonstrate the feasibility of secondary healing after resection of a 3,0 × 1,9 × 2,1 cm schwannoma in the soft palate, resulting in no postoperative impairments, especially due to velopharyngeal function in a follow-up period of 2 months.