Abstract
Most cases of neoplasms arising from the palate can be treated by partial excision of the palate, reconstruction with local flaps and a palatal prosthesis. Several methods of reconstruction with free flaps have also been reported to correct surgical defects of the palate.
We report a case of adenoid cystic carcinoma in the palate, which required a total palatectomy. A preoperative CT examination revealed that the tumor had spread extensively and destroyed anteriorly the alveolar process of the maxilla and the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone posteriorly. The defect of the palate was corrected with a fibular free flap. Blood loss during the operation was over 6000ml, however, the patient has been well after being discharged.
Functional reconstruction of the palate is a complicated problem, and the quality of life of patients should always be taken into consideration when treating an aggressive neoplasm.
