[Complications of the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap in the cervical reconstruction]

The complications of the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (PMMF) placed at cervical level, carried out in oncologic patients during the period 1984-1992 are reviewed. A total of 33 PMMF for reconstruction at the cervical level were carried out in 30 patients. Data referred to the age, sex, indication, technics, complications and evolution of the patients were analysed. The global rate of patients affected by complications was 67%, with a 17% of failures. Considering the 33 PPMF carried out, in 15 occasions there appeared fistulas (45%) and in other 8 cases dehiscence or partial necrosis (24%). In only one case a total necrosis of the flap appeared (3%). The appearance of complications significatively increased the hospital stay.