Restricted mandibular opening complicating intraoral galeal flap reconstruction and radiotherapy case report

Despite many advantages over musculocutaneous and free flaps, galeal flaps are seldom used intraorally by the head and neck surgeon. The literature reveals little in the way of complications of such flaps. A case is reported in which a temporoparietal galeal flap used in reconstruction after resection of an intraoral squamous cell carcinoma, followed by a course of radiotherapy, led to postoperative restriction of mandibular opening. The combination of surgery and radiotherapy with the intraoral use of this flap may lead to flap fibrosis and limited mouth opening.