Harvest of Facial Artery Fasciocutaneous Flap for Recoonstruction of Oral Defects

Defects of the anterior floor of mouth, mandible, and retromolar trigone are commonly reconstructed with free flaps to provide reliable vascularity and adequate tissue in a dependent intraoral location while minimizing donor-site morbidity. However, not all patients are ideal candidates for free tissue transfer. The facial artery fasciocutaneous flap offers a versatile regional alternative, supported by a consistent vascular pedicle and a favorable arc of rotation for intraoral reconstruction.

This surgical video demonstrates the step-by-step harvest of the facial artery fasciocutaneous flap for reconstruction of a retromolar trigone defect. Key anatomic landmarks, preoperative marking, flap design, and dissection techniques are detailed, with particular emphasis on identification and preservation of the facial artery.

This flap provides dependable vascularity, appropriate tissue thickness, and reliable reach for oral cavity reconstruction. The technique allows for efficient harvest, predictable inset, and primary donor-site closure with acceptable aesthetic outcomes.

Overall, the facial artery fasciocutaneous flap is an underutilized yet reproducible option for selected oral cavity defects. This video presents a practical approach to flap harvest and inset, offering surgeons an effective reconstructive alternative while avoiding the added morbidity of free flap surgery.