IATROGENIC MICROSTOMIA – CORRECTION BY COMMISSUROTOMY AND BUCCAL MUCOSA FLAPS

Abstract

Microstomia is the medical term to define the reduction of the oral aperture. It is a common complication after lip tumors excision. It can be severe enough to compromise cosmesis, nutrition, and quality of life. Microstomia correction is a challenge, with many reconstructive techniques described in the literature. A 83-year-old male patient is observed with a verrucous lesion that occupied the left inferior half of the lower lip. Biopsy revealed a squamous cell carcinoma. He was submitted to a radical excision but developed an iatrogenic microstomia, with an important compromise of the nutrition. Microstomia was corrected using comissurotomy and orbicularis oris muscle repositioning. Vermillion was reconstructed with 2 romboidal mucosal flaps.