Combined flap-wire reconstruction of the oral cavity

The concept of immediate reconstruction for head and neck defects following tumor resection provides the impetus for the development of new reconstructive techniques. In this article, the authors describe the evolution of local and regional flaps and the more recent use of composite tissues. The application of a combined forehead-deltopectoral flap and Kirschner wire for the reconstruction of a large defect involving the oral cavity, mandible and facial-cervical skin is presented in a case report and evaluated as to its efficacy in the treatment of head and neck cancer.