Modified bilobular ("gemini") pectoralis major myocutaneous flap

The bilobular or gemini type of pectoralis major myocutaneous flap evolved from a desire to simplify the closure of large surgical defects of both mucosa and skin that could not be satisfactorily closed primarily. Previously, such defects often required combined or multiple reconstructive procedures such as myocutaneous and deltopectoral flap operations. The mucosal and skin defects are closed by two skin paddles supported by a single muscular vascular pedicle. The skin paddles are fashioned side by side and separated from each other as the muscle is folded between them parallel to the vascular axis. All of the defects were successfully closed and the major portion of all grafts survived. This operation permits single-stage reconstruction after ablation of tumors or treatment of complications which produced large through-and-through mucocutaneous defects of the head and neck area.