Closure of oroantral communications with Bichat's buccal fat pad

A novel approach for reconstruction of anterior cheek defects: Series connection of cheek mucosal flap and buccal fat pad

BACKGROUND

The buccal mucosa is a frequent site of precancerous lesions, and surgical excision often leaves a mucosal defect. owing to the inherent limited length of the buccal fat pad, its efficacy in covering mucosal defects is confined. In cases where the defect is anterior in the cheek, reliance solely on buccal fat pad is insufficient for complete coverage of the affected area. The currently used reconstructive approach for cheek mucosal defects, biological membrane coverage, is associated with a risk of severe mouth opening restriction due to scar contracture, adversely affecting the patient's quality of life. This study introduces a novel technique combining a cheek mucosal flap with the buccal fat pad to address anterior cheek defects. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a combined cheek mucosal flap and buccal fat pad technique for reconstructing anterior cheek mucosal defects.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of five patients who underwent this surgical procedure at Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University was conducted. The technique involved creating a cheek mucosal flap and advancing the buccal fat pad to cover the defect. Postoperative outcomes, including mouth opening and scar formation, were assessed.

RESULTS

All patients achieved satisfactory healing with mouth openings exceeding 3.0 cm. No significant complications were observed, and the surgical sites were fully mucosalized within three months.

CONCLUSION

The combined cheek mucosal flap and buccal fat pad technique is a viable solution for reconstructing anterior cheek defects, offering improved functional and aesthetic outcomes with minimal complications. This surgical methodology boasts considerable practicality and potential for widespread dissemination.

Endoscopic maxillary sinus drainage combined with buccal fat pad flaps for repairing large oroantral fistulas in patients with odontogenic maxillary sinusitis

Background

Oroantral fistula (OAF) is a pathological channel formed between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus. A large size of OAF (≥5 mm) increases the risk of surgical failure, and an optimal surgical approach should be cautiously selected.

Objective

This study aims to characterize the application of nasal endoscopy and buccal fat pad (BFP) flaps to repair large OAFs in patients with odontogenic maxillary sinusitis (OMS).

Methods

A total of 32 patients with large OAF combined with OMS after dental extraction who were treated in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Nanjing Renpin ENT Hospital from 2018 to 2022, were retrospectively recruited. A thorough preoperative evaluation was performed and all patients were first treated with nasal endoscopy, followed by the repair of OAFs using BFP flaps under general anesthesia. The cure rate and postoperative pain score were used as outcome indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of the procedure.

Results

All patients completed a 12-month follow-up. The results showed that OFAs were cured in 25 (32 in total, 78.1%) patients by the second postoperative week. OFAs were healed in all patients at week 8 postoperatively. OMS was healed in 25 (32 in total, 78.1%) patients at the first postoperative week and all patients were healed by the disappearance of symptoms associated with OMS at week 8 postoperatively. At the second postoperative week, complete relief of pain symptoms was obtained in 18 (32 in total, 56.3%) patients (visual analog scale = 0 score), in 25 (32 in total, 78.1%) patients at the fourth postoperative week, and by the eighth postoperative week, all patients had complete resolution of pain symptoms.

Conclusions

Secondary maxillary sinusitis is not a contraindication to the treatment of large OAFs. Large OAFs can be effectively closed using BFP flaps combined with endoscopic maxillary sinus drainage.

The Buccal Fat Pad: A Unique Human Anatomical Structure and Rich and Easily Accessible Source of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Tissue Repair

Buccal fat pads are biconvex adipose tissue bags that are uniquely found on both sides of the human face along the anterior border of the masseter muscles. Buccal fat pads are important determinants of facial appearance, facilitating gliding movements of facial masticatory and mimetic muscles. Buccal fad pad flaps are used for the repair of oral defects and as a rich and easily accessible source of mesenchymal stem cells. Here, we introduce the buccal fat pad anatomy and morphology and report its functions and applications for oral reconstructive surgery and for harvesting mesenchymal stem cells for clinical use. Future frontiers of buccal fat pad research are discussed. It is concluded that many biological and molecular aspects still need to be elucidated for the optimal application of buccal fat pad tissue in regenerative medicine.

Efficacy of buccal pad fat as a new approach in the treatment of gingival recession: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of buccal pad fat (BPF) as an autologous graft in the treatment of gingival recession (GR). Thus, the research question explores if the BPF can serve as a viable alternative to the gold standard connective tissue graft.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Only seven studies met the inclusion criteria were critically appraised including the randomized controlled clinical trials, and case series. The inclusion criteria were systemically healthy individuals in the age range (18-65 years old) with Miller's classification of GR either class I, II, III, or IV while exclusion criteria were patients with poor oral hygiene, pregnant and lactating patients, teeth with caries, any prior surgery in the relevant regions, and use of medications.

RESULTS

The review included 117 patients with 136 GR defects. The age of participants ranges from 20 to 65 years old with the higher percentage of root coverage (%RC) at 6 months in the pedicled BPF group which was 89.30%while the lowest (%RC) at 6 months in the same group was 46.78%. The BPF group's width of keratinized gingiva (WKG) values indicate a notable improvement, suggesting a positive impact on WKG compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

BPF can be considered as a promising graft to augment gingival tissues at different sites in the oral cavity with different Miller's classes of GR providing a new era in GR treatment.

A Review of the Use of Buccal Fat Pad in Cleft Palate Repair

OBJECTIVE

To review the available evidence on the use of the Buccal Fat Pad in primary and secondary Cleft Palate repair.

METHODS

This is a narrative review. A computerized literature search was conducted for articles published till February 2022 using the Mesh phrases buccal fat pad AND cleft palate, Bichat's Fat pad AND cleft palate, buccal fat pad OR Bichats Fat pad AND cleft palate.

RESULTS

A total of 35 articles were included in this review based on the set eligibility criteria. Most of the studies were retrospective case reviews (n  =  16, 45.7%), and the aggregate number of patients from all included studies was 666. Reported uses of the buccal fat pad (BFP) in association with cleft palate repair include the closure of central cleft palate defect and nasal floor in primary cleft palate repair, oronasal fistula repair following primary repair of cleft palate, and closure of relieving incision defect in primary repair of cleft palate. Complications reported were 24 cases of Oronasal Fistula (ONF), 2 dehiscences, and 4 transient mucosal defects.

CONCLUSION

The high success rate, vascularity, ease of tissue harvest, and low donor site morbidity all support its use as an adjunct flap in cleft palate repair, especially in the closure of wide palatal clefts, to prevent post-palatal repair fistula, wound contracture, and subsequently velopharyngeal insufficiency and possibly midface hypoplasia.

Treatment of Odontogenic Maxillary Sinusitis with the Use of Growth Factors in Advanced Platelet-Rich Fibrin for Immediate Closure of Oro-Antral Communication: A Case Report

Chronic odontogenic maxillary sinusitis (COMS), a prolonged inflammation of the maxillary sinus lasting over 12 weeks, is often a result of periapical lesions, marginal periodontitis, and complications like oro-antral communication (OAC) and fistula (OAF). OAC, commonly emerging post-teeth extraction in the lateral maxilla, lacks documented treatments using advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF). This study evaluates A-PRF's efficacy in treating COMS and immediately sealing extensive OAC. A case of a 28-year-old male with COMS linked to a periapical lesion and supernumerary molars is presented. Treatment involved extracting specific teeth while preserving adjacent ones and using A-PRF for immediate OAC closure. A-PRF, enriched with growth factors, was pivotal in healing, showcasing enhanced tissue regeneration, pain reduction, and faster recovery. The findings suggest A-PRF as an effective adjunct in treating extensive OAC and COMS, proposing its inclusion in standard treatment protocols. This study underscores A-PRF's potential in improving outcomes for patients with COMS and related complications.

Simultaneous management of chronic maxillary sinusitis from dental origin and the relevance of nasal septal deviation: A retrospective evaluation of 65 cases

PURPOSE

Dental origin constitutes most chronic unilateral maxillary sinusitis (CMS) and is referred to as dental chronic maxillary sinusitis (DCMS). Recently, dental implants and related surgical procedures have become more prevalent. We present an evaluation of the simultaneous treatment of DCMS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of records from 395 patients with CMS treated at our medical center from 2015 to 2020 found 65 patients diagnosed with DCMS. Statistical analyses were performed using the records data.

RESULTS

Four patients were excluded. The final study population included 35 males and 26 females with a mean age of 55. 29 % were post-dental implant placement or related pre-prosthetic procedures. Presenting symptoms included middle meatus edema (72 %), pus in the middle meatus (70 %), and nasal secretion (39 %). Clinical findings included septal deviation (39 %), among them 87 % deviated toward the diseased sinus, OAF (49 %), and nasal polyposis (16 %). In 32 patients, the OAF was closed in one layer using a local mucoperiosteal flap. In 29 patients, the closure was done in two layers, including a buccal fat pad (BFP) regional flap. One patient had a reopened OAF, and five patients required revision surgery. 92 % of patients in this study had complete clinical and radiological resolution of the DCMS.

CONCLUSIONS

Relevance of nasal septal deviation in association with DCMS is present. There is no distinct difference in the manner of OAF closure if it is done in a simultaneous procedure. One stage combined multidisciplinary surgical procedure is sufficient to treat DCMS.

Buccal fat pad flap for transoral repair of radiation-induced necrosis in the lateral oropharyngeal wall

Soft tissue necrosis (STN) is a late toxicity after radiotherapy. Extensive tissue defects due to STN near the carotid artery, such as in the lateral oropharyngeal wall, may lead to infectious pseudoaneurysms associated with fatal bleeding. Such defects are usually treated with transcervical reconstructive surgeries, which are highly invasive and technically difficult. We report a case in which a buccal fat pad (BFP) flap was used for minimally invasive transoral repair of tissue defects due to radiation-induced STN in the lateral oropharyngeal wall. The BFP flap covered the tissue defect, and the wound epithelialized completely. The patient had no dysfunctional mouth opening, speech, or swallowing. The BFP flap can be easily harvested via a minimally invasive transoral approach and is expected to be further utilized for radiation-induced STN in the lateral oropharyngeal wall.

Use of buccal fat pad-derived stem cells cultured on bioceramics for repair of critical-sized mandibular defects in healthy and osteoporotic rats

OBJECTIVE

To compare new bone formation in mandibular symphysis critical-sized bone defects (CSBDs) in healthy and osteoporotic rats filled with bioceramics (BCs) with or without buccal fat pad mesenchymal stem cells (BFPSCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to two groups (n = 16 per group): group 1 healthy and group 2 osteoporotic (with bilateral ovariectomy). The central portion of the rat mandibular symphysis was used as a physiological CSBD. In each group, eight defects were filled with BC (hydroxyapatite 60% and β-tricalcium phosphate 40%) alone and eight with BFPSCs cultured on BC. The animals were sacrificed at 4 and 8 weeks, and the mandibles were processed for micro-computed tomography to analyze radiological union and bone mineral density (BMD); histological analysis of the bone union; and immunohistochemical analysis, which included immunoreactivity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2).

RESULTS

In both groups, CSBDs filled with BC + BFPSCs showed greater radiological bone union, BMD and histological bone union, and more VEGF and BMP-2 positivity, compared with CSBDs treated with BC alone at 4 and 8 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of BFPSCs cultured on BCs improves bone regeneration in CSBDs compared with BCs alone in healthy and osteoporotic rats.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Our results may aid bone regeneration of maxillofacial CSBDs of both healthy and osteoporotic patients, but further studies are necessary.

Treatment of Gingival Recession Class II Defect using Buccal Fat Pad versus Platelet Rich Fibrin using Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access Technique

ABSTRACTAim of study: The aim of this study was to Compare the effectiveness of Non-pedicled buccal fat pad versus Platelet rich fibrin in treatment of Miller class II gingival recession using vistubular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access TechniquePatients and methods:This study was conducted on 40 patients with class II gingival recession in anterior or premolar segment. The entire patients were selected from the out patient clinic of the Oral Medicine, Oral Diagnosis, and Periodontology Department. Faculty of Dentistry, Minya University.Forty patients with gingival recession class II were divided randomly into two groups:Group I: (20 defect) using VISTA technique with Non- pedicled buccal fat pad (NPBFP), Group II: (20 defect) using VISTA technique with platelet rich fibrin (PRF).Results: In both groups all clinical parameters were statistically significant from pre-operative period till 6 months follow up period. In the comparison between the two groups after 6 months follow up period, there were no statistically significant difference between two groups regarding all clinical parameters except percentage of root coverage; there was significant increase in percentage of root coverage after 3 and 6 months follow up period in group II with p value was less than 0.05.Conclusion: Both PRF membrane and NPBFP are effective in the management of Class II gingival recession defects using VISTA technique. PRF group has better results regarding percentage of root coverage than NPBPF group after 3 and 6 months follow up.

Complications of Dentoalveolar Surgery

This article explores how to prevent and manage complications of dentoalveolar surgery. Many complications are avoidable. Surgical skills and knowledge of anatomy play an important role in prevention of complications. Prevention starts with detailed history and physical examination of the patient. Key to perioperative management of patients is risk assessment. Without a proper history and physical examination, the clinician is unable to assess the risk of performing surgery and anesthesia for each patient. Some illnesses and medications increase the risk of complications. The following complications are discussed: alveolar osteitis, displacement, fracture, hemorrhage, infection, nonhealing wound, oroantral communication, swelling, and trismus.

Surgical treatment of advanced medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws: Comparison of soft tissue closure techniques and evaluation of side effects

The aim of the study was to evaluate the surgical outcome of patients with advanced medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) treated with different flaps for soft tissue closure. Only MRONJ stage III patients with a minimum follow-up of 6 months were included in our prospective study. The soft tissue closure techniques were: Mylohyoid Muscle Flap, Buccal Fat Flap and mucoperiosteal flap alone. Potential risk factors and surgical side effects were analyzed. Relapses occurred in 12 of 44 included cases and 38 reached mucosal integrity within the follow-up. Cases treated with the muscle or fat flap showed better results regarding the recurrence rate (p < 0.001) and soft tissue healing (p = 0.002): only 3 of 33 developed a relapse, and 31 of 33 reached mucosal integrity. The outcome was worse if MRONJ occurred at the front areas of the jaw (p = 0.025). Postoperative, the pain level was reduced significantly (p < 0.001). Partial hypoesthesia of the lip arose in 18 cases. An impairment of the long-term prosthetic rehabilitation has not been seen.Patients with MRONJ stage III undergoing surgery benefit from extensive soft tissue closure.

A pedicled palatal periosteal flap for the closure of oro-antral fistula

Various surgical techniques have been developed for oro-antral fistula (OAF) closure, all of which have some drawback. Twenty consecutive patients with an OAF were enrolled in this prospective study. A trapezoid full-thickness flap extending from the palatal area to the buccal gingiva was raised, including the fistula at its centre. The palatal free end aspect was split into two layers and the deep periosteal layer was folded deep to the flap over the bony defect, thereby sealing the fistula. The superficial layer was returned to its primary position and sutured. The patients were followed for 3 months. Nineteen patients showed immediate OAF closure. One patient showed a residual oro-antral communication of 0.5mm in diameter that resolved spontaneously within 4 weeks. The pain level (on a visual analogue scale) was highest at the first follow-up week, with a mean score of 5.5, which decreased to a mean level of 2.5 in the second week and 0 in the fourth week. The mean satisfaction level was 9.85 on a scale of 0-10 (10 representing total satisfaction). The pedicled palatal periosteal flap is a simple and effective surgical technique with high predictability and patient satisfaction levels, offering one more alternative for the treatment of OAF.

Treatment of Miller Class I Gingival Recession with Using Nonpedicle Adipose Tissue after Bichectomy Surgical Technique: A Case Report

Gingival recession is an oral health problem that affects a large part of the population. Several treatments are suggested in the current literature; among them is the use of buccal fat pad grafting. The objective of this case report is to describe the treatment of a Miller Class I gingival recession using a nonpedicled buccal fat pad graft immediately after performing the surgery for buccal fat pad removal (bichectomy technique). First, bilateral surgical removal of the buccal fat pad was performed with the main objective of eliminating oral mucosa biting. The recipient site was prepared to receive a portion of the fat pad that was cut and macerated in a size that was sufficient to cover the recession. The patient was followed up at 15, 30, 60, and 365 days postsurgery, and the results showed an elimination of the oral mucosa biting and complete coverage of the gingival recession. It was concluded that the nonpedicled buccal fat pad graft is another option for the treatment of Miller Class I recessions.

Management of Large Oroantral Fistulas Caused by Medication-Related Osteonecrosis with the Combined Sequestrectomy, Buccal Fat Pad Flap and Platelet-Rich Fibrin

Purpose

The aim of this retrospective study was to describe the efficacy of management of bisphosphonate-related maxillary osteonecrosis, which had resulted in an oroantral fistula formation, by performing sequestrectomy, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and buccal fat pad (BFP) flap.

Patient and Methods

A total of 7 patients diagnosed with stage III maxillary medication-related osteonecrosis according to guidelines of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. All patients complained of persistent pain, swelling and purulent drainage with sinusitis. In order to keep the infection under control, the patients first received an antibiotic combination for 2 weeks. Then, sequestrectomy and bone debridement were performed under general anesthesia. After that, an antrectomy was performed via endoscopic sinus surgery in some cases. And the fistula was closed with BFP after or before the PRF application to the region depending on the size of the fistula.

Results

The fistula was successfully closed. After a mean follow-up of 16 months, no symptoms were seen in the patients.

Conclusions

The patients were successfully managed with a combined treatment consisted of sequestrectomy, PRF and BFP. We suggest that large defects arose from medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw can be managed with such a combined approach in order to lessen the recurrence risk.

Decision-making in closure of oroantral communication and fistula

After removal of a dental implant or extraction of a tooth in the upper jaw, the closure of an oroantral fistula (OAF) or oroantral communication (OAC) can be a difficult problem confronting the dentist and surgeon working in the oral and maxillofacial region. Oroantral communication (OAC) acts as a pathological pathway for bacteria and can cause infection of the antrum, which further obstructs the healing process as it is an unnatural communication between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus. There are different ways to perform the surgical closure of the OAC. The decision-making in closure of oroantral communication and fistula is influenced by many factors. Consequently, it requires a combination of knowledge, experience, and information gathering. Previous narrative research has focused on assessments and comparisons of various surgical techniques for the closure of OAC/OAF. Thus, the decision-making process has not yet been described comprehensively.

The present study aims to illustrate all the factors that have to be considered in the management of OACs and OAFs that determine optimal treatment.

Collagen Membrane Over Buccal Fat Pad Versus Buccal Fat Pad in Management of Oral Submucous Fibrosis: A Comparative Prospective Study

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of collagen membrane as biological dressing over buccal fat pad (BFP) during crucial postoperative healing phase in the surgical management of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF).

STUDY DESIGN

The study comprised of 40 patients of OSMF of group IVa (Khanna and Andrade). Patients were randomly divided in two groups (20 patients in each group). Group I patients were treated using buccal fat pad only, whereas collagen membrane was used as a covering over harvested BFP in group II patients. Postoperative follow-up was done at 1 week, 3 weeks, 6 months and 1 year.

RESULT

Mean postoperative mouth opening achieved in both the groups was comparable at every follow-up visit. Infection was evident in four patients of group I at 1-week follow-up, whereas none of the group II patients developed infection. Pain score was lesser in group II patients as compared to group I. Relapse was seen in two patients in group I and one patient in group II. Time taken for epithelialization was 2-3 weeks in both the groups.

CONCLUSION

Although intraoperative time was increased in group II application of collagen membrane reduced infection when compared with group I. Also, the chances of damage to BFP are reduced during the hygiene maintenance at surgical site and jaw-opening exercise. Reduction in pain scores during postoperative period in group II patients was an additional advantage.

Closure of Oroantral Fistula With Buccal Fat Pad Flap and Endoscopic Drainage of the Maxillary Sinus

Oroantral fistula (OAF) is a pathologic communication between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus. It is usually associated with maxillary sinusitis, where drainage of sinus infection is a mandatory step during closure of the fistula. The flap used for closure of OAF should be tension free, broadly based and well vascularized. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of closure of OAF using buccal fat pad (BFP) flap with concomitant endoscopic middle meatal antrostomy for maxillary sinus drainage. Nineteen patients with chronic OAF were included in the study. Closure was performed using BFP with endoscopic middle meatal antrostomy. Preoperative and postoperative assessments were carried out. Patients were followed up for at least 1 year postoperatively. Complete closure of all OAFs was achieved with no recurrence or dehiscence. In conclusion, closure of OAF with BFP flap and concomitant endoscopic drainage of the maxillary sinus through the middle meatus is an effective, easy, and simple method. It has a high success rate with no effect on the vestibular depth or mouth opening.

Low quality evidence for treatment approaches for oro-antral communications

Data sourcesCochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Medline via Ovid, Embase via Ovid, US National Institutes of Health Trials Registry and the World Health Organisation (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched until July 2015 followed by hand searching of relevant references.Study selectionUsing no language restrictions, two authors independently assessed for inclusion of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating any intervention for treating oro-antral communications (OAC) and oro-antral fistulae (OAF) due to dental procedures. Quasi-RCTs and crossover trials were excluded.Data extraction and synthesisTwo authors independently assessed for inclusion, resolved disagreement by discussion and a third reviewer was consulted if necessary.Qualitywas determined independently by using GRADE 2004.For the dichotomous outcome complete closure, they expressed the estimate effect as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).ResultsA single study that started with 22 participants was included in the review where the overall risk of bias was judged as unclear. The main outcome was complete closure. The study compared pedicled buccal fat pad flap (PBFPF) with buccal flap (BF) and showed no difference in the closure of OAC, with a calculated RR of 1.00, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.20.ConclusionsVery low quality evidence from a small single study provided insufficient proof to judge if there is a difference in the effectiveness of the interventions.

The Buccal Fat Pad for Closure of Oroantral Communication

The buccal fat pad (BFP) is a well-established tool in oral and maxillofacial surgery and its use has proved of value for the closure of oroantral communications. Oroantral communication may be a common complication after sequestrectomy in "bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws."The authors report a clinical case of a 70-year-old female patient in bisphosphonate therapy presented with right maxillary sinusitis and oroantral communication after implants insertion.The BFP was used to close the defect. The patient had an uneventful postoperative healing without dehiscence, infection, and necrosis.The authors postulate that the primary closure of the site with BFP may ensure a sufficient blood supply and adequate protection for an effective bone-healing response to occur.

Soft Tissue Augmentation Techniques and Materials Used in the Oral Cavity: An Overview

PURPOSE

Oral soft tissue augmentation or grafting procedures are often necessary to achieve proper wound closure after deficits resulting from tumor excision, clefts, trauma, dental implants, and tooth recessions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Autologous soft tissue grafts still remain the gold standard to acquire a functionally adequate zone of keratinized attached gingiva. However, soft tissue substitutes are more commonly used because they minimize morbidity and shorten surgical time.

RESULTS

This review aimed to assess soft tissue grafting techniques and materials used in the oral cavity from existing literature. There are a large variety of materials and techniques, including grafts, local flaps, allogenic derived matrices such as acellular dermal allograft, xenogenic tissue matrices from animal origin, and synthetic materials.

CONCLUSIONS

Tissue engineering of oral mucosa represents an interesting alternative to obtain sufficient autologous tissue for reconstructing oral wounds using biodegradable scaffolds, and may improve vascularization and epithelialization, which are critical for successful outcomes.

The use of the buccal fat pad flap for oral reconstruction

Many congenital and acquired defects occur in the maxillofacial area. The buccal fat pad flap (BFP) is a simple and reliable flap for the treatment of many of these defects because of its rich blood supply and location, which is close to the location of various intraoral defects. In this article, we have reviewed BFP and the associated anatomical background, surgical techniques, and clinical applications. The surgical procedure is simple and has shown a high success rate in various clinical applications (approximately 90%), including the closure of oroantral fistula, correction of congenital defect, treatment of jaw bone necrosis, and reconstruction of tumor defects. The control of etiologic factors, size of defect, anatomical location of defect, and general condition of patient could influence the prognosis after grafting. In conclusion, BFP is a reliable flap that can be applied to various clinical situations.

Dental implants after the use of bichat's buccal fat pad for the sealing of oro-antral communications. A case report and literature review

Oro-antral communications are frequent complications in oral surgery, and generally occur after molar extractions, maxillary sinus elevations or dental implant procedures. The presence of these defects may increase the morbidity and often need a surgical approach. The present report describes an oro-antral communication in a 52-year-old female who presented a 2 week-course of painless nasal obstruction and rhinorrea after a right maxillary sinus floor elevationwith simultaneous dental implant placement. Based on the anamnesis, clinical examination and a computed tomographyof the paranasal sinuses, a diagnosis of odontogenic rhinosinusitis associated with a 1.5 cm diameter oro-antral communicationwas establishedand its surgical closure using Bichat’s buccal fat pad was planned.After 15 months, the patient was successfully rehabilitated with an implant-supported 3 unit fixed partial denture.

Key words:Dental implants, buccal fat pad, oro-antral communications.

Risk factors associated with oroantral perforation during surgical removal of maxillary third molar teeth

PURPOSE

The relationship between radiographic findings and the occurrence of oroantral perforation is controversial. Few studies have quantitatively analyzed the risk factors contributing to oroantral perforation, and no study has reported multivariate analysis of the relationship(s) between these various factors. This retrospective study aims to fill this void.

METHODS

Various risk factors for oroantral perforation during maxillary third molar extraction were investigated by univariate and multivariate analysis. The proximity of the roots to the maxillary sinus floor (root-sinus [RS] classification) was assessed using panoramic radiography and classified as types 1-5. The relationship between the maxillary second and third molars was classified according to a modified version of the Archer classification. The relative depth of the maxillary third molar in the bone was classified as class A-C, and its angulation relative to the long axis of the second molar was also recorded.

RESULTS

Performance of an incision (OR 5.16), mesioangular tooth angulation (OR 6.05), and type 3 RS classification (i.e., significant superimposition of the roots of all posterior maxillary teeth with the sinus floor; OR 10.18) were all identified as risk factors with significant association to an outcome of oroantral perforation.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first multivariate analysis of the risk factors for oroantral perforation during surgical extraction of the maxillary third molar. This RS classification may offer a new predictive parameter for estimating the risk of oroantral perforation.

Use of Auricular Cartilage for Closure of Oroantral Fistula: A Prospective Clinical Study

INTRODUCTION

The term oro-antral fistula is understood to mean of fistular canal covered with epithelia which may or may not be filled with granulation tissue or polyposis of the sinus mucous membrane. With the presence of a fistula the sinus is permanently open, which enables the passage of microbial flora of the oral cavity into the maxillary sinus and the occurrence of inflammation with all possible consequences. Every now and then various researchers have proposed innumerable techniques to treat this defect. Starting from simple tissue flaps to autogenous grafts to alloplastic materials, an array of procedures have been evaluated in literature but the most promising technique still needs to be evaluated. Consequently, after reviewing an array of such procedures, our present study focussed on a new technique for the closer of oro-antral fistulas using autogenous auricular cartilage graft supported by buccal advancement flap.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A total of 20 patients of oro-antral fistula were included in the study and after excising the fistular tract a double layer closure was done by placing auricular cartilage over the defect followed by buccal mucoperiosteal flap. The graft was harvested using posterior auricular approach. Assessment of patients was done at the end of 1 week, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months.

CONCLUSION

We found that the autogenous auricular cartilage graft is an effective sealing material in oro-antral fistula closure. We recommend this technique for the defect size ≤10 mm² in which future dental implant placement is sought as it allows easy sinus lifting procedure.

Use of a palatal pedicle flap for closure of an oroantral fistula

Sinus lifting has become a routine procedure in modern implant dentistry. Despite its predictability, this type of surgery may eventually lead to serious complications and sequelae. Most of the time, such complications are due to technical failures, such as perforation of the sinus membrane during surgery, which may eventually lead to graft loss due to infection within the sinus, which finds its drainage path into the mouth and leads to an oroantral communication (OAC). Epithelization of such a draining duct characterizes an oroantral fistula (OAF). This report presents the use of a palatal pedicle flap to successfully close an OAF in a patient who had previously undergone a sinus lifting procedure. Several surgical techniques may be used in the closure of an OAF, and the choice of a particular technique is subject to the characteristics and location of the communication as well as to the preference of the surgeon. The palatal pedicle flap was successfully chosen in the present case report. The palatal pedicle flap was considered an adequate option for closure of an OAF in a single-stage surgical procedure, with no loss of either keratinized mucosa or buccal sulcus depth in the area of the fistula.

Use of buccal fat pad to repair post-extraction peri-implant bone defects in the posterior maxilla. A preliminary prospective study

Background

Extensive literature exists about the use of the BFP in the treatment of oral defects but, to our knowledge, no article refers to the use of the BFP as a substitute of the membrane barriers for treatment of peri-implant bone defects. The aim was to evaluate the use of the buccal fat pad as a coating material for bone grafting in the peri-implant bone defect regeneration of immediate implants placed in the posterior maxilla.

Material and Methods

A preliminary prospective study of patients involving immediate implants in which the buccal fat pad was used as a coating material to peri-implant bone defects was carried out. The outcome measures assessed were: postoperative pain and swelling, complications related to buccal fat pad surgery, implant survival and success rates and peri-implant marginal bone loss at 12 months of prosthetic loading.

Results

Twenty-seven patients (17 women and 10 men) with a mean age of 55.3 ± 8.9 years, and a total of 43 implants were included. Two-thirds of the patients reported either no pain or only mild intensity pain and moderate inflammation, two days after surgery. Post-operative period was well tolerated by the patients and no serious complications occurred. None wound dehiscence occurred. Implant survival and success rates were 97.6% and the average marginal bone loss 1 year after loading was 0.58 ± 0.27 mm.

Conclusions

Within the limits of this preliminary study, the use of the buccal fat pad as a coating material for bone grafting in peri-implant bone defects placed in the upper posterior maxilla was a well-tolerated technique by patients; high implant success rate was achieved with a minimal peri-implant marginal bone loss at 12 months of prosthetic loading.

Key words:Buccal fat pad, immediate implant, peri-implant bone defect.

Combined palatal flap and titanium mesh for oroantral fistula closure

The oroantral fistula (OAF) is an epithelialized communication between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus. In most of the cases, this communication occurs after molars and premolars extractions, but other factors may be cause of the communication, such as trauma. This article demonstrates an alternative surgical technique illustrated with a case report in which we perform the surgical treatment of OAF with palatal flap rotation combined with the use of titanium mesh in a victim of gunshot projectile wound in oral cavity.

Surgical Treatment of Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaws with the Use of Buccal Fat Pad: Case Report

Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BROJ) has been described since 2003 as an adverse effect of bisphosphonate medications. These drugs act on the vasculature and bone remodeling, mainly on osteoclastic activity and can cause areas of necrotic bone exposure. Treatment for the BROJ is not yet defined, but surgical treatment is one of the forms proposed, which may cause oral deformities like sinus communication in some cases. In situations like this the buccal fat pad is an important alternative for coating nasal-oral communications, due its large blood supply, elasticity, absence of restriction by age and safety. This paper presents the case of a 58-year-old woman with BROJ in the left maxilla caused by the use of zoledronic acid for metastatic breast cancer. The extensive necrotic bone area was surgically removed resulting in oral sinus communication. A buccal fat pad was used to cover the defect. More studies should be performed regarding the treatment of BROJ but, if necessary, a buccal fat pad flap could be an alternative to solve nasal-oral communications related to BROJ.

One stage combined endoscopic and per-oral buccal fat pad approach for large oro-antral-fistula closure with secondary chronic maxillary sinusitis

There are numerous surgical approaches for oro-antral-fistula (OAF) closure. Secondary sinus disease is still considered by many experts a relative contra indication for primary closure. To describe a single-stage combined endoscopic sinus surgery and per-oral buccal fat pad (BFP) flap approach for large OAF causing chronic maxillary sinusitis. The records of all the patients with OAF and chronic manifestations of secondary rhinosinusitis that were treated between 2010 and 2013 in our tertiary care medical center were reviewed. The exclusion criteria were: OAF ≤ 5 mm, resolved sino-nasal disease, OAF secondary to malignancy, recurrent fistula, medical history that included radiotherapy to the maxillary bone and age <18 years. Each procedure was performed by a team consisting of a rhinologist and a maxillofacial surgeon. The surgical approach included an endoscopic middle antrostomy with maxillary sinus drainage, and a per-oral BFP regional flap for OAF closure. Total OAF closure, complications and need for revision surgeries. Forty-five patients that underwent OAF closure together with sinus surgery using a combined endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and BFP flap approach met the inclusion criteria. There were 28 males and 17 females with a mean ± SD age of 53.5 ± 14.9 years (range 22-80 years). The presenting signs and symptoms included purulent rhinorrhea (n = 22, 48.9 %), foreign body in sinus (n = 10, 22.2 %) nasal congestion (n = 7, 15.5 %), halitosis (n = 6, 13.3 %) and pain (n = 5, 12.2 %). Surgical complications included local pain (n = 2, 4.4 %), persistent rhinitis (n = 2, 4.4 %) and synechia (n = 1, 2.2 %). One patient required revision surgery due to an unresolved OAF. The OAF of all the other 44 patients (97.8 %) was closed after the first procedure and the paranasal sinuses on the treated side were completely recovered. The mean follow-up time for the group was 7.6 ± 4.3 months (7-21 months), and no untoward sequelae or recurrence were reported. Combined, one step, endoscopic Maxillary sinus drainage together with per-oral BFP flap approach is an efficacious surgical approach for safe closure of OAFs that are complicated with secondary chronic maxillary sinusitis.

Closure of oroantral communications with Bichat´s buccal fat pad. Level of patient satisfaction

Purpose: To report the closure of oroantral communications with the pedicled buccal fat pad in a series of patients, and to determine the level of patient satisfaction after the surgery. Study Design: A prospective study of patients diagnosed of unilateral or bilateral oroantral communication (OAC) closed using the buccal fat pad between May 2012 and January 2013 was performed. Data analysis extended to: age, sex, and cause, location and size of oroantral communication. Complications and success related to buccal fat pad surgery were evaluated. Also, patient satisfaction was assessed after six months of surgery. Results: Nine patients (3 men and 6 women) with a mean age of 50.5 years and 11 OAC treated with buccal fat pads were included. The most common cause of oroantral communication was the extraction of molars. The average widest diameter of the oroantral communication was 7.1 mm. One week after the surgeries no complications were found. One month after surgery, one patient presented persistence of the oroantral communication; in this patient, the buccal fat pad technique was considered a failure, and a second intervention was performed using a buccal mucoperiosteal flap to achieve primary closure of soft tissues. After six months, patient showed closure of the communication and complete healing. All the other communications had been solved with Bichat´s ball technique, yielding a success rate of 90.9%. Mean patient overall satisfaction was 9.1 out of 10; patients were satisfied with phonetics (9.4), aesthetics (9) and chewing (9). Conclusions: The buccal fat pad technique was successful in closing 10 out of 11 oroantral communications and few complications were found. Patients were highly satisfied in overall with the treatment and with phonetics, aesthetics and chewing.

Key words:Bichat’s fat pad, buccal fat pad, oroantral communication.

Closure of oroantral communication with buccal fat pad after removing bilateral failed zygomatic implants: A case report and 6-month follow-up

The aim of this study was to assess the use of buccal fat pad (BFP) technique as an option to close oroantral communications (OAC) after removing failed zygomatic implants in a patient with a severely resorbed maxilla, and to determine the degree of patient satisfaction. A 64-year-old woman presented recurrent sinusitis and permanent oroantral communication caused by bilateral failed zygomatic implants, 3 years after prosthetic loading. Zygomatic implants were removed previous antibiotic treatment and the BFP flap technique was used to treat the OAC and maxillary defect. The degree of patient satisfaction after treatment was assessed through a visual analogue scale (VAS). At 6-months follow-up, patient showed complete healing and good function and the results in terms of phonetics, aesthetics and chewing were highly rated by the patient. Key words:Bichat fat pad, buccal fat pad, zygomatic implants, oroantral communication.

Autogenous bone graft combined with buccal fat pad as barrier in treatment of Class II furcation defect: a case report

The treatment of furcation defects is a complex and difficult task that may compromise the success of periodontal therapy. Here we report a new clinical treatment of a Class II furcation defect using an autogenous bone graft associated with a buccal fat pad (BFP) used as a membrane. The surgical treatment was performed following initial periodontal therapy. Post-operative follow-up appointments were performed at 3, 7, and 12 months. Clinically, after 3 and 7 months, a reduction in probing depth without bleeding on probing and an increase in vertical and horizontal clinical attachment level were observed. After 7 post-operative months, an increase in keratinized gingiva was observed. Radiographically, a significant improvement was noted, with the furcation defect almost completely closed. These results could also be observed after 12 postoperative months. It can be concluded that the combined use of autogenous bone graft and a BFP yielded clinically favorable outcome in the treatment of a mandibular Class II furcation defect.

Intraoral reconstruction using local and regional flaps

Choosing a pedicled flap to reconstruct an intraoral defect depends on the size and the anatomic position of the tissue defect. The goals are to restore form and function and minimize donor site morbidity. Regional pedicled flaps available for intraoral reconstruction are the buccal fat pad flap, facial artery musculomucosal flap, platysma, pectoralis major, temporalis muscle flap, and trapezius flaps. We give a concise illustration of anatomy, our harvesting technique, indications, and eventual pitfalls for each of the six flaps.

The use of silicone sheet to improve buccal fat pad healing in palatal reconstruction

The author presents a new method involving the use of a silicone sheet to achieve an improved, faster healing of pedicled buccal fat pad flaps used in palatal reconstructions. This method was applied in 3 patients with excellent final results. The procedure is quick and easy to implement, and it efficiently improves the healing of buccal fat pad used in palatal reconstruction surgery.