Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap for reconstruction of defects following resections in head and neck area.

Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (PMMF) has become the standard for reconstruction of major defects in head and neck area. Eleven cases, operated over a three year period, in which PMMF was used for reconstruction have been reviewed retrospectively. Nine patients had oral squamous cell carcinoma, one had a basal cell carcinoma of the external ear and one had lost skin and soft tissue of neck following synergistic gangrene. Ten of the eleven flaps survived (success rate 91%). One of the three rib grafts used to reconstruct mandible got infected and had to be removed. Three patients developed wound infections and one had a temporary orocutaneous fistula which closed spontaneously. This brief experience confirms the reliability and efficiency of PMMF for head and neck reconstruction.