The use of the pectoralis major myocutaneous island flap for reconstruction after major ablative head and neck surgery.

The anatomy of the pectoralis major myocutaneous island flap and the technique and history of its use in reconstruction after major ablative head and neck surgery are described. Twelve cases illustrating the indications for use of the flap and the surgical applications, complications and results are reported. In the future we may expect great advances in this field due to the versatility and reliability of the flap.