[Musculocutaneous flaps in cervicofacial oncology surgery. Experience in 145 cases]

The use of myocutaneous flaps in reconstructive surgery after cancer resection for T3-T4 tumors of the head and neck is reported in 145 clinical cases. In this series, flap viability, proved to be as high as 96%. The use of myocutaneous flaps extends far beyond the limits of tumor resection, improves functional and cosmetic results and permits to operate safely on irradiated patients. This study shows that healing in irradiated patients tends to be comparable to that in non irradiated patients. Survival's conditions, especially the relief of pain are consistently improved, still when no tumor control can be achieved. Most recurrences occurs within a year following surgery, most frequently after salvage surgery.