Introduction: Modern trends in post malignancy reconstruction
target more aesthetic and functional outcome with
more patient satisfaction.This study aims to weight the oncological,
technical, aesthetic and functional considerations and
propose a novel scoring system in selection of an ideal local
and locoregional flap for oncoplastic head and neck reconstruction.
Patients and Methods: 52 local and locoregional flaps
were created in 52 patients those were squeduled for head
and neck tumour resection and defects reconstruction. These
cases have been classified into six groups according to the
flaps used in reconstruction. Oncological, technical, aesthetic
and functional considerations were reviewed in each case.
The data were collected as a prospective study throughout a
2-year period.
Results: By analysis of the pre-requisites, operative
findings and outcomes of reconstructions, multipleparameters;
oncological, technical, aesthetic and functional were evaluated.
All significant positive considerations were grouped and
compared in each flap type. According to the weight of these
considerations, a proposal of a scoring system (OTAF score)
was formulated.
Conclusion: This study provides a simplified systematic
method of flap selection for post malignancy head and neck
reconstruction through a scoring system (OTAF score) using
oncological, technical, aesthetic and functional considerations.
Individualized selection for each case still has its place however
further evaluation and modifications of this scoring system
is essential to maximize the results of our reconstructive tools.