Muscle flaps in the head and neck.

Muscle flaps about the head and neck have signficant application in reconstruction and rehabilitation following radical ablative surgery. Nine such flaps are reviewed and the uses, advantages, and disadvantages in three major muscle falps cited. Their main applications include: 1) augmentation of a regional deficiency and preparation of a bed for skin grafting; 2) rehabilitation of the paralyzed face and so improved appearance in repose and animation; 3) protection for vital vascular structures such as the carotid or innominate artery; and 4) assistance in mastication and deglutition when transposed to a paralytic or deficient area.