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Musculocutaneous flaps in head and neck reconstruction
1Northern Ireland Plastic & Maxillofacial Service, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, Belfast.
Summary
Musculocutaneous flaps revolutionized head and neck reconstruction, with latissimus dorsi and pectoralis major flaps being key. However, microvascular free flaps, like the radial forearm flap, now dominate reconstructive surgery.
Area of Science:
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Musculocutaneous flaps represent a significant advancement in reconstructive surgery.
- Historically, specific flaps like latissimus dorsi and pectoralis major were crucial for head and neck defect repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the introduction and application of musculocutaneous flaps in head and neck reconstruction.
- To list, describe, and illustrate the most important available flaps for this purpose.
Main Methods:
- Review of available musculocutaneous flaps for head and neck reconstruction.
- Detailed description and illustration of key flaps, including latissimus dorsi and pectoralis major.
- Comparison with contemporary techniques.
Main Results:
- Musculocutaneous flaps, including latissimus dorsi and pectoralis major, have established roles in head and neck reconstruction.
- These flaps have been largely surpassed by advancements in microvascular free flap techniques.
Conclusions:
- While foundational, traditional musculocutaneous flaps are now less frequently used in head and neck reconstruction.
- Microvascular free flaps, exemplified by the radial forearm flap, are the current standard of care for many head and neck defects.