[Functional and esthetic reconstruction of complex facial defects after tumor resection and trauma]

Nowadays, free revascularized myocutaneous and osteomyocutaneous flaps are available as grafts of high biological value, which allow functional and esthetic rehabilitation after tumor resection and trauma. The use of these flaps however must be considered carefully, since these techniques require a good general physical condition of the patient for extensive surgery and a considerable operation time. Therefore we consider these flaps as adequate solely in cases of poor recipient site conditions after previous irradiation or chronic infection, in cases of extensive scar formation and in large bone and soft tissue defects. In these cases revascularized grafts from the iliac crest have proven to be useful in mandibular reconstruction while scapular grafts has been useful in restorations of the midface.