Evaluation of the superior and inferior labial musculomucosal flaps in cats: An angiographic study and case series

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the angiosomes of the superior and inferior labial arteries in the cat and describe the use of a musculomucosal axial pattern flap incorporating each artery for reconstruction of palatal defects in cats. Study design Cadaveric study and a series of two clinical cases. Sample population Five feline cadavers and two client‐owned cats. Methods The common carotid arteries of five feline cadavers were injected with barium sulfate. Radiographs of excised tissue specimens were examined to map the location of the superior and inferior labial arteries and to visualize each angiosome available for an axial pattern flap. Labial musculomucosal flaps were utilized to reconstruct palatal defects in two live cats. Results The superior and inferior labia were predominantly perfused by the superior and inferior labial arteries, respectively, and the angiosome of each artery encompassed the majority of its respective labium. Comparative positive contrast angiograms revealed the vascular supply was located within the musculomucosal layer. Reconstruction of recurrent palatal defects utilizing musculomucosal flaps based on these angiosomes in two clinical cases was successful with complete survival of the flaps. Conclusion The upper and lower lips were found to have robust vascular supplies within the musculomucosal layer which can support musculomucosal axial pattern flaps. Clinical significance This information provides the veterinary surgeon with additional surgical options for reconstruction of central and caudal palatal defects in the cat.