Rational and simplified nomenclature for buccinator myomucosal flaps.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of moderate-sized mucosal defects of the oral cavity or oropharynx represents a surgical challenge. Buccinator myomucosal flaps seem to provide "ideal reconstruction" of oral/oropharyngeal defects because they carry a thin, mobile, well-vascularized, and sensitive tissue, like that excised or lost. Nevertheless, these flaps are not immediately popular because of confusion surrounding the complex terminology used to name them.

METHODS: After a retrospective study on our experience and a literature review, the authors propose a new rational and simplified nomenclature for the classification of buccinator myomucosal flaps, which clarifies the source vessel, the composition of the flap, and the type of transfer.

RESULTS: According to this nomenclature, six types of buccinator myomucosal flaps are described.

CONCLUSIONS: This proposed nomenclature may bring a consensus on the classification of buccinator myomucosal flaps and can help their spread.