Mandible reconstruction with the trapezius osteomusculocutaneous flap.

The use of the trapezius osteomusculocutaneous island flap for mandibular reconstruction was first described in the American literature by Panje and Cutting in 1980. Since that initial description, we have utilized this composite flap to reconstruct the lower jaw in 24 patients. Approximately 85% of the cases were done for anterior arch defects and/or osteoradionecrosis. With an overall success rate of 87%, this surgical technique offers an especially useful method for immediate reconstruction of the lower jaw.