[The pectoralis myofascial flap in oropharyngeal and pharyngolaryngeal reconstruction in salvage surgery].

BACKGROUND

The pectoralis major myofascial (PMMF) flap is rapidly mobilized, reliable in a number of clinical situations calling for vascularized soft tissue coverage in the head and neck. Salvage surgery after radiation failures produce salivary fistula, skin flap necrosis, vascular rupture. Use of PMMF improves healing in such cases.

METHODS

A retrospective review performed at the university hospital, Marseille, between August 1987 and August 1999, was undertaken in two groups of salvage surgery. Groupe 1: protection of great vessels and fistula prevention after total laryngectomy (TL) and pharyngolaryngectomy (PL). Groupe 2: intra oral and pharyngeal defects reconstruction. Outcomes were classified in three types: type 1 - no complications; type 2 - delayed healing; type 3 - complicated healing. In groupe 2, in six cases the amount of flap contraction was analysed by C.T. scan.

RESULTS

83 PMMF was performed. Groupe 1, 57 cases (TL 28 cases, PL 26 cases); groupe 2, oral cavity défect 9 cases; oropharyngeal défects; 17 cases. There was no flap necrosis or vascular rupture. The donor site complications rate was 9.2%. The overall complications follow up was; groupe 1; type 1: 66%; type 2: 32%; type 3: 2%. In the groupe 2, type 1: 81%; type 2: 19%; type 3: 0%. The flap contracture was 30%. The use of PMMF in salvage surgery must be indicated in all cases after TL or PL, and is an excellent alternative from soft tissue coverage of oropharyngeal defects.