INTRODUCTION: The myocutaneous flap is an important tool on which the plastic surgeon relies when handling major defects after tumors resection. PURPOSE: The objective of this study is reporting the incidence of post-operative complications with myocutaneous flap of pectoralis muscle for repairs in oncologic surgery, especially head and neck. METHODS: A retrospective survey was performed. Patients with head and neck malignancies submitted to this technique were studied. RESULTS: Between March/1994 and July/2009, 116 patients submitted to oncologic surgery were evaluated. There were 2 total flap losses, 14 partial flap losses and 17 fistulas. CONCLUSION: The incidence of surgical complications was relatively high, what we believe to be linked with the advanced oncologic disease stage in our population, their nutritional condition and the nature of the surgery. Despite that, the authors consider that the myocutaneous flap of pectoralis muscle is a good choice for plastic surgeons working in head and neck reconstruction.
Surgical flaps; Pectoralis muscle; Surgery, Plastic
