Partial Upper Lip Reconstruction Using Fujimori Flap: A Case Report

Abstract

The Fujimori gate flap is known and used for the reconstruction of defects resulting from oncologic surgery. This case report describes the use of this flap to reconstruct the upper lip of a patient who had a defect following lip carcinoma, resulting in a loss of 2/3 of the upper lip tissue. The case involves a 34-year-old woman presenting a partial lip defect after upper lip carcinoma. She underwent a unilateral gate flap procedure, which allowed the authors to reconstruct the three levels of skin, muscle, and mucosa. Following surgery, no complications were observed. The patient was followed up at three months and a year later. She was able to speak and chew without  any trouble after the flap restored oral competency. The patient’s treatment objectives, which included regaining oral competency and achieving an acceptable aesthetic result, were met thanks to the use of the Fujimori gate flap in this case. Compared to the use of other local, regional, or remote flaps, the flap also provides good color matching. The Fujimori flap ensures the restoration of the oral sphincter, in contrast to the typical flaps used to reconstruct the upper and lower lip, thereby promoting oral competence.