Unipedal pectoralis major myocutaneous flap for reconstruction of skin defects in oral cancer surgery: A prospective study of 40 cases

Abstract

Background: Reconstruction following oral cancer is very important part of the treatment defining both aesthetic and functional aspects. Options available for reconstructions are regional pedicle flaps and microvascular free flaps. Pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMMC) flap is regarded as the workhorse for reconstruction in the area of oral cavity and neck. A unipedicle PMMC is a good option for reconstruction of full thickness defects after resection of tumors of oral cavity. Material and Methods: A study was undertaken on patients of soft tissue defects of head and neck region after resection of tumor of oral cavity (squamous cell carcinoma). Total 40 patients, who were treated in the department of surgical oncology were included in this study. Results: Gingivo-buccal complex was the most common site observed for oral malignancy and majority of patients were in TNM stage- III in this study. Flap survival was good in majority of cases excluding one case of total flap necrosis and 5 cases of minor edge necrosis. Conclusions: Unipedal PMMC flap is effective in reconstruction of full thickness defect of oral cavity defects even in the era of free flap reconstructions especially in developing countries. Despite few minor flap related complications PMMC flap survival rate is high and total flap necrosis rate is uncommon.