Transposition nasolabial flap: A versatile flap for sensate reconstruction of lip defects.

INTRODUCTION: Lip reconstruction aims at maintaining the function and aesthetics of the facial subunits. Sensation in the reconstructed lip helps in bolus formation, tactile discrimination, and thermal sensation. In this study, we aim to describe random pattern nasolabial flap for lip reconstruction using various functional parameters. METHODOLOGY: This is a retrospective study of 22 patients with carcinoma lip who underwent surgical resection and reconstruction with sensate nasolabial flap. Several clinicopathological parameters were studied. Outcome parameters like oral competence, tactile sensation, thermal sensitivity of reconstructed lip and speech outcomes were evaluated. RESULT: A functional outcome with 2-4 mm of two-point discrimination was obtained in 19 patients. All patients had intelligible speech. A mean sulcus depth of 19.59 mm was achieved. One patient had partial flap loss owing to wound infection. CONCLUSION: Random pattern senate nasolabial flap offers a good functional outcome by maintaining the tactile and thermal sensitivity.

Worst pattern of invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma is an independent prognostic factor.

Introduction: Biologic aggressiveness of OSCC (Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma), has intrigued research in various prognosticating histopathological markers over past few decades. DOI (Depth of Invasion) is one such histopathological factor which affects outcomes and was included in the AJCC 8th edition TNM staging. Pattern of Invasion (POI) has been widely reported as an adverse prognostic factor associated with higher locoregional failure and poor prognosis. However, these factors are not utilized for treatment decision making and for outcome assessment. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 320 patients with OSCC who underwent treatment, from October 2018-February 2020. Clinic demographic details were extracted from electronic medical records. Univariate and multivariate analysis was done for the parameters. WPOI (Worst Pattern of Invasion) was correlated with all histopathological prognostic factors. Survival analysis was done using Kaplan Meier for WPOI type's I-V. DFS (Disease free Survival) was evaluated for different grades of WPOI. Results: We analyzed the results comparing, early and advanced T (Tumor) stages, cohesive WPOI I-III, non-cohesive WPOI IV-V. Univariate analysis showed a significant association of T-stage (p = 0.001), N (Nodal) -stage (p = 0.002), DOI (p = 0.008), PNI (Peri-neural invasion) (0.001) and Tumor differentiation Grade (p = 0.001). On multivariate analysis, non-cohesive WPOI (IV & V) showed significant association with grade, PNI, DOI (0.002, 0.033 & 0.033 respectively). Non-cohesive WPOI had significantly higher locoregional failures and short DFS. Conclusion: Presence of invasive WPOI is associated with advanced T stage, poor differentiation, PNI, greater depth of invasion, and higher chances of nodal metastasis. WPOI is associated with poor DFS, treatment intensification in early stage disease with WPOI type IV & V may improve survival.

Helmet shielding effect in mandibular fractures during road traffic accident.

OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study are to evaluate the proportion of helmeted and nonhelmeted patients sustaining mandibular fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 200 patients reporting to oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) unit, trauma center, and department of OMFS. A predesigned questionnaire was used to collect the necessary data. Patients were evaluated for age, gender, mode of transport (2/4 wheeler), presence of safety measure at the time of accident (helmet/seatbelt), maxillofacial injury in two wheeler (with helmet and without helmet), type of impact, and its association to maxillofacial fractures, particularly site of maxillofacial fractures. The association between mode of injury, presence of safety measures, impact type, and site of maxillofacial injuries was assessed using the Chi-square test. P < 0.5 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 30 years, and approximately 92.5% of accidents patients were male. In this study, 35% nonhelmeted riders were reported head injury and 5% of the helmeted rider reported head injury. 54.5% of the patients suffered frontal impact, 28% collision, and 17.5% lateral slide collision. Head injuries are the main cause of death among the riders of all two wheelers. Lateral sliding collision injuries (17.5%) resulted 60.6% of the fractures mandible, 24.2% midface injury, and associated injury (15.15%). CONCLUSION: The use of helmet is strongly recommended to prevent head injuries and facial injuries. In the nonhelmeted riders in motorcycle accidents, the incidence of mandible fractures increases proportionally.

Safe Delivery of Surgical Care in Head and Neck Cancer Patients During COVID-19-an Audit of Pattern of Presentation and Treatment Strategies in an Oncology Centre in the Northern India.

Delay in treatment of head and neck cancer leads to stage migration and increased morbidity. Due to the COVID-19, surgical care has been severely affected. We continued our oncology services during the pandemic. We present here the pattern of presentation of head and neck cancer patients to the hospital and strategy to continue services. A retrospective audit of patients registered under Head and Neck Disease Management Group during lockdown, 23rd March to 31st May 2020, was done. Four categories were made new registrations, post-surgical patients, emergency department visits and follow-up presentation. Of the 693 patients assessed, a majority were with oral cavity cancer (80%). Seventy-eight percent of patients presented with stage IV disease. There were 382 new registrations, of which 68% were symptomatic. Of the 69 patients that underwent surgery, 17 patients were on adjuvant treatment. A total of 60 patients presented to emergency department during this period, maximum with complaints of dyspnoea (67%). One hundred eighty-nine patients were follow-up patients of which 43% were symptomatic. Among these, 12 patients were diagnosed with recurrence. Various administrative and clinical policies were formulated to continue cancer care during this time. Surgical services need not be halted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following scientific rationale and treatment strategies, safe oncosurgical care can be delivered during pandemic.

Versatility and Reliability of Islanded Pedicled Nasolabial Flap in Head and Neck Cancer Reconstruction.

OBJECTIVES: Reconstruction of head and neck cancer ablative defects is challenging. A modification of the nasolabial flap (islanded pedicled nasolabial flap [ipNLF]) is an easy and reliable option for reconstruction of small- to medium-sized defects of the head and neck, especially in resource-constrained and high-volume centers. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We present the retrospective analysis of 27 consecutive patients reconstructed with ipNLF at two high-volume cancer centers, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital, Varanasi, India; and Army Hospital Research and Referral, New Delhi, India. The functional outcomes measured were duration of weaning of feeding and tracheotomy tubes and speech assessment (speech intelligible rating score [SIR]) postsurgery. Complications assessed were flap loss, orocutaneous fistula, donor site wound dehiscence, oral incompetence, and angle of mouth deviation. RESULTS: The most common ablative defect was of the oral cavity (22 patients), followed by the oropharynx (4 patients) and hypopharynx (1 patient). The mean operating time for flap harvesting and insetting was 57.7 minutes. The mean durations for postoperative feeding tube and tracheotomy removal were 10 and 5 days, respectively. Twenty-four subjects had SIR scores of I or II. None of the subjects had flap loss, orocutaneous fistula, or donor site wound dehiscence. Twenty-five subjects had no oral incompetence, and 26 subjects had no or minimal angle of mouth deviation. CONCLUSION: This is the largest series of ipNLF to date and emphasizes the versatility, reliability, reproducibility and excellent functional and acceptable cosmetic outcomes of this flap for the reconstruction of judiciously chosen head and neck ablative defects. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2C Laryngoscope, 130: 1967-1972, 2020.

Comparison of stability with two-time use of platelet-rich growth factor versus one-time use of platelet-rich growth factor in immediate placement of dental implant in infected socket.

PURPOSE: The aim is to evaluate the outcome and compare the stability with two-time use of platelet-rich growth factor (PRGF) versus one-time use of PRGF in immediate placement of dental implant in infected socket. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study comprised placement of immediate implant in infected sockets in 100 patients with two-time use of PRGF (Group B) versus one-time use of PRGF (Group A). Proper administration of antibiotics, careful debridement of the socket, and meticulous suturing were done in every case. In Group A, it was placed at the time of immediate implant placement. In Group B, it was placed twice: at the time of placement of implant and 1 month after placement of implant. Clinical assessment of pain and swelling was done. Stability was assessed by radiofrequency analyzer immediately after placement and at follow-up of 2 months and 3 months. RESULTS: The stability of implants with two-time placement of PRGF was more than that with one-time placement of dental implant. All except 14 implants osseointegrated in this study. There was significant decrease of pain and swelling in both the groups from day 1 to week 1 and was nil by 12 weeks. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that placement of immediate implant in infected socket with two-time use of PRGF is an effective and better alternative for rehabilitation. However, more studies with longer follow-up and large number of patients are needed to confirm the results of this study.

Tentpole technique for bone regeneration in vertically deficient alveolar ridges: A prospective study.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to qualitatively and quantitatively assess bone regeneration potential of tentpole technique using beta tricalcium phosphate bone graft in vertically deficient alveolar ridges. MATERIALS AND METHOD: This prospective study comprised of 20 patients with vertically deficient alveolar ridges, wherein thirty one implants were placed. Tenting of the soft tissue matrix was done using titanium screws and beta tricalcium phosphate synthetic bone graft was filled in the vertical defect. Clinical and radiographic assessment was done at 1, 3 and 6 months. Preoperative biochemical analysis of Osteopontin and RANKL was done and then reassesed at 3 months postoperative. Bone core collected at 6 postoperative months, while removal of screw, was analysed histologically. RESULTS: A significant gain in bone height of 2.87 ± 0.79 mm was seen at 6 months postoperative. All implants osseointegrated. Loosening of screw was seen in two patients.There was no postoperative wound dehiscence. Histologic analysis revealed new bone formation .There was no significant change in the levels of RANKL and Osteopontin at 3 months postoperative. CONCLUSION: This is a safe and effective technique for bone regeneration in vertically deficient alveolar ridges and has minimal complications. The regenerated bone has new and viable bone content and supports implant material. More studies with long term follow up are needed to assess the stability of bone after long term loading.

TMJ Arthrocentesis Alone and in Combination with Duloxetine in Temporomandibular Joint Pain.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy of arthrocentesis alone and arthrocentesis with duloxetine in patients with TMJ pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study comprised of 20 patients. Patients with TMJ pain as confirmed by RDC/TMD and with pain duration of at least 3 months were included in the study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups, group A in which patients were treated with arthrocentesis alone and group B in which patients were treated with arthrocentesis followed by duloxetine 30 mg twice daily for 12-week therapy. Patients were followed up at regular interval at day 1, day 5, day 7, week 4, week 6 and week 12. Outcome assessment of pain, swelling, maximal mouth opening, painful/pain-free lateral or protrusive jaw movement was done. Hospital anxiety and depression (HAD) scale was used to assess pre- and post-treatment anxiety and depression. Radiologic assessment was done based on OPG and CBCT. Biochemical assessment of IL-6 in lavage fluid between groups A and B was done pre-operatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: There was significant reduction of pain in both groups, but reduction of pain was more in group B than in group A at week 4, week 6 and week 12. Mouth opening was significantly higher in group B than in group A patients. Reduced painful lateral and protrusive movements were seen in group B than in group A patients. There was no significant difference in hospital anxiety and depression scale among the groups at pre-operative and at 4th week post-operative. Though a significant reduction of IL-6 levels was seen post-operatively, there was no significant difference between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Arthrocentesis is an effective procedure for relieving symptoms in patients with temporomandibular disorders. In this study, combination of duloxetine with arthrocentesis gave much better outcome than arthrocentesis alone. Further studies with large sample size required to evaluate the effect of arthrocentesis plain or in combination with duloxetine in providing permanent relief to the patient.

Efficacy of oral colchicine with intralesional hyaluronidase or triamcinolone acetonide in the Grade II oral submucous fibrosis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a potentially malignant disorder of oral mucosa affecting mainly population in South and Southeast Asia. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of oral colchicine with intralesional injection of hyaluronidase or injection triamcinolone acetonide in patients with Grade II OSMF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included thirty patients of clinically diagnosed Grade II OSMF. Patients were divided randomly into two groups: Group A patients were treated by administrating tablet colchicine 0.5 mg twice daily with an intralesional injection of hyaluronidase 1500 IU with 0.5 ml of lignocaine hydrochloride at weekly interval for 12 weeks. Group B patients were treated by administering tablet colchicine 0.5 mg twice daily with an intralesional injection of triamcinolone acetonide 10 mg/ml at weekly interval for 12 weeks. Clinical diagnosis was based on burning sensation in mouth, blanching of mucosa, presence of vesicles or ulceration in oral cavity, and reduced mouth opening. Outcome assessment was done at intervals of 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. RESULTS: Improvement in mouth opening and reduction in burning sensation was seen more in Group A patients. Improvement in blanching of mucosa was seen in both the groups. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, use of injection hyaluronidase with oral colchicine gave better results in terms of increase in mouth opening and improvement in burning sensation without notable side effects. However, for a definite conclusion, further study with large sample size and long follow-up is required.

Tentpole technique for bone regeneration in vertically deficient alveolar ridges: A review.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Vertical augmentation is necessary in cases of extensive resorption of alveolar ridge for dental implants placement and esthetic prosthetic rehabilitation. Several surgical techniques have been used to increase bone height including distraction osteogenesis, and particulate or block bone graft. This study was done to describe the evolution of "tentpole technique" and to review the literature related to this technique and thus evaluate its effectiveness to augment large vertical alveolar ridge defects for implant placement. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The evidence was obtained by PubMed and Google search using key words: tentpole technique, ridge resorption, and alveolar ridge augmentation . The years of search included from 2002 till 2013. RESULTS: The technique was described as effective on review of outcome of existing studies. It was found that considerable and stable increase in alveolar ridge height was achieved using tentpole technique. CONCLUSIONS: Tenting of periosteum and soft tissue matrix maintains space and enhances the effectiveness of bone graft. This technique offers predictable functional and esthetic reconstruction of large vertical alveolar defects.