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Head & Neck Oncology
Published in: Head & Neck Oncology 1/2011

Open Access 01-12-2011 | Research

Evaluation of the pectoralis major flap for reconstructive head and neck surgery

Authors: Astrid L Kruse, Heinz T Luebbers, Joachim A Obwegeser, Marius Bredell, Klaus W Grätz

Published in: Head & Neck Oncology | Issue 1/2011

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Abstract

Purpose

The pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (PMMF) is a commonly used flap in reconstructive head and neck surgery, but in literature, the flap is also associated with a high incidence of complications in addition to its large bulk. The purpose of the study is the evaluation of the reliability and indication of this flap in reconstructive head and neck surgery.

Patients and methods

The records of all patients treated with a PMMF between 1998 and 2009 were systematically reviewed. Data of recipient localization, main indication, and postoperative complications were analyzed.

Results

The male to female ratio was 17:3, with a mean age of 60 years (45-85). Indications in 7 patients were recurrence of a squamous cell carcinoma, in one case an osteoradionecrosis and in 12 cases an untreated squamous cell carcinoma. In 6 male patients (30%), a complication appeared leading to another surgery.

Conclusion

The PMMF is a flap for huge defects in head and neck reconstructive surgery, in particular when a bulky flap is needed in order to cover the carotid artery or reconstructive surgery, but the complication rate should not be underestimated in particular after radiotherapy.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Evaluation of the pectoralis major flap for reconstructive head and neck surgery
Authors
Astrid L Kruse
Heinz T Luebbers
Joachim A Obwegeser
Marius Bredell
Klaus W Grätz
Publication date
01-12-2011
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Head & Neck Oncology / Issue 1/2011
Electronic ISSN: 1758-3284
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1758-3284-3-12

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