Platysma flap for oral reconstruction

In the authors' series of 12 consecutive patients who had oral reconstruction using the indications described above, flap survival always was achieved. Venous congestion was observed often: the flap became intensively red, showing a disappointing color that resolved spontaneously with only skin de-epithelialization. In one case of floor-of-the-mouth repair, a marginal necrosis of the distal portion of the flap occurred, possibly because of a venous drainage problem. The secondary defect healed spontaneously, without fistula formation. The time required to outline the flap is less than for most other flaps, and donor site morbidity is minimal. In selected cases, a platysma flap is an easy and rewarding solution for repairing various oral defects.