Delayed maxillary reconstruction following mucormycosis: A comprehensive analysis of surgical strategies and outcomes.

[STUDY DESIGN] This study is a prospective observational study conducted over two years from December 2020 to March 2023 at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

[OBJECTIVE] To evaluate the outcomes of delayed reconstruction in patients with maxillectomy defects post-COVID-19 associated mucormycosis, focusing on safety, morbidity, and aesthetic results.

[METHODS] Fifty patients with post-COVID-19 mucormycosis and maxillectomy defects without skin involvement were included. These patients underwent radical debridement and were treated with Amphotericin B followed by Posaconazole therapy until clinical and radiological resolution of the disease. Reconstruction was performed after a minimum of six months post-maxillectomy. Flaps used for reconstruction included the radial forearm free flap (RAFF), anterolateral thigh flap (ALT), and free fibula osteomyocutaneous flap, planned using a 3D-printed model. Follow-up was conducted weekly for the first month and monthly for the next two months, with semiannual visits thereafter.

[RESULTS] Of the 50 patients, 42 % were male, and 58 % were female, with a mean age of 43 ± 8.75 years. Most patients (88 %) were diabetic. Maxillectomy defects were categorized as type IIA, IIB, IIIA, IIIB, and IV based on the Cordeiro classification. Four flaps (8 %) required re-exploration, with three salvaged. Complications included marginal flap necrosis (4 %) and oro-nasal fistula (2 %). The average hospital stay was six days, extended to ten days for re-explored cases. Flap dimensions varied with the largest being 62 cm² for the free fibula flap.

[CONCLUSIONS] Delayed reconstruction using free flaps in patients with post-COVID-19 mucormycosis maxillectomy defects without skin involvement is a safe approach with minimal morbidity. This method allows confirmation of disease resolution before major reconstructive surgery, resulting in excellent aesthetic and functional outcomes.