Role of Buccal Fat Pad in Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction

Role of Buccal Fat Pad in Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the Surgical Anatomy of the Buccal fat pad.
• Understand the clinical uses of the buccal fat pad.
• Identify the technique of the buccal fat pad.
• Elaborate on different cases treated with buccal fat pad.
• Identify the complications associated with the buccal fat pad.

Abstract:

 This study is designed to evaluate the pedicled buccal fat pad grafting for the applicability of the reconstruction of oral defects surgically created during oral surgery or as a complication of various dento-alveolar surgery. The flap was used to cover surgical defects of the palate, maxilla, upper gingiva, buccal mucosa, lower gingiva, retromolar region, oral floor, and temporomandibular joint. Complete epithalialization was observed within 4-6 weeks postoperatively according to the extent of the defect. There were no complications (wound dehiscence, necrosis or infections) or functional disorders during follow-p. Buccal fat pad grafting appears to be feasible for the reconstruction surgically induces defects, and can be extended to the palate, mandible, mouth angle, and temporomandibular joint region, it is simple, nearby and feasible graft.

Introduction: 

The buccal fat pad is located in the buccal space which is the compartment in which the buccal fat pad is confined. The boundaries of this compartment include the buccinator muscle medially, the deep cervical fascia and muscles of facial expression anterolaterally, and the masticator space and the parotid gland posteriorly.

BFP has many possible functions: filling and allowing slippage of the fascial spaces between mimetic muscles; enhancement of intermuscular motion, separating muscles of mastication form one another; to counteract negative pressure during suckling in the newborn; protection and cushion of neurovascular bundles from injuries.