Free Vastus Lateralis Myocutaneous (VLMC) Flap for Reconstruction of Radionecrotic Defect of the Head and Neck

Abstract

Radionecrosis is a common complication in head and neck cancer patients who received post-operative radiotherapy. It is a difficult problem not only poor head and neck appearance and care but also the risk of vessels rupture and mortality. Skin grafts, local skin, or mucosal flaps that might be perfectly adequate in a non-irradiated patient are unlikely to resolve the problem in a wound that has been previously irradiated or is to undergo adjuvant radiotherapy. From Oct. 2001 to Sep. 2002, eleven patients suffered from radionecrosis after post-operative radiotherapy were included. We used free vastus lateralis myocutaneous flaps in the huge radionecrotic defects of head and neck and got a good result. Two patients with post-operative wound infection healed after debridement and wound dressing. VLMC flap not only can provide enough skin territory to cover the huge wound and defect, but also has the ability to resist wound infection. We commend VLMC flap to reconstruct the radionecrotic defect of head and neck.