Subaponeurotic connective tissue: a safe way to reconstruct facial and oropharyngeal defects.

The reconstructive technique of using subaponeurotic connective tissue as a pedicle or free flap for large facial and oropharyngeal defects has been developed on the basis of cadaver research and clinical practice. The technique was applied in 33 cases. Anatomico-histological properties of the flap tissue, postoperative results, basic indications for use and comparative advantages of the flap are surveyed in the article. The safety and simple design of the flap is emphasized.