Surgical Management of Oro-Nasal Communication in Cocaine-Induced Lesions: Temporalis Muscle Flap with Le Fort I Osteotomy.

Abstract

Background: Cocaine is a recreational drug known for its negative impact on health and social and economic life. One of the complications for cocaine abusers is cocaine-induced midline destructive lesion (CIMDL) syndrome, which includes the extensive destruction of the osteocartilaginous structures of the nose, the sinus, and the palate. Methods: Here, we describe three cases of the surgical management of CIMDL using a temporalis muscle flap combined with a Le Fort I osteotomy, which allows sufficient space for the muscle to settle. Results: The addition of the osteotomy allowed better handling of the pedicled flap, with no signs of relapse in the reported cases and high patient satisfaction. Conclusions: CIMDL syndrome is an impairing disease that negatively affects the functionality of the nasal and oral cavities, as well as the aesthetic. Surgical repair using a pedicled flap is a valid option in rehabilitated and sober patients with endothelial damage.