Random mucosal rotating flaps for rostral to mid maxillary defect reconstruction: 26 dogs (2000-2019)

Objectives To evaluate the feasibility and the complications following single or double random mucosal rotating (transposition or interpolation) flaps for the closure of rostral to mid maxillary defects in dogs. Materials and Methods Medical records of dogs treated with single or double random mucosal rotating flaps after maxillectomy for oral lesions or traumatic loss of tissue, were evaluated. Clinical findings, surgery performed, outcome and postoperative complications (major and minor) were extracted. Results Twenty-six client-owned dogs were retrospectively included. Dogs underwent maxillectomy for canine acanthomatous ameloblastomas (9), oral squamous cell carcinomas (4), peripheral odontogenic fibromas (4), oral melanomas (3), oral fibrosarcomas (2), dentigerous cysts (2) and oral osteosarcoma (1) and trauma resulting in an oronasal fistula (1). Twenty-three dogs underwent a single transposition or interpolation flap and three dogs were treated with a double transposition flap. Postoperative complications, including dehiscence or flap necrosis, occurred in six dogs. Clinical Significance Random mucosal rotating (transposition or interpolation) flaps are versatile when used to close rostral maxillary defects in dogs. Postoperative complications appear to be more likely when these flaps are used to close mid maxillary defects.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the feasibility and complications of using single or double random mucosal rotating flaps to close maxillary defects in dogs. The results showed that these flaps are versatile and effective in closing rostral maxillary defects, but may be associated with postoperative complications when used to close mid maxillary defects.