[Myocutaneous island flaps as a new principle in plastic and reconstructive head and neck surgery]

After a brief introductory presentation of typical regional flaps for surgical repair of cervicofacial defects, the author describes the principle, the advantages, and the disadvantages of myocutaneous island flaps. The central position and the great value of the acromiopectoral myocutaneous island flap (pectoralis major-flap) for reconstructive practice are emphasised. This flap allows the total one-stage repair of the hypopharynx and cervical oesophagus.