Reconstruction of through-and-through oral cavity defects with folded extended vertical lower trapezius island myocutaneous flap

Abstract

Reconstruction of through-and-through defects of the head and neck is a challenge. In this clinical study we assessed the feasibility of the folded, extended, vertical, lower trapezius island myocutaneous flap (TIMF) for the reconstruction of 16 large through-and-through defects of the oral cavity, which were reconstructed after resection of oral cancer. The skin paddle was 5–7cm wide and 11–20cm long. The folded flap provides both inner and outer linings for through-and-through defects, and all the flaps survived. The appearance of the head and neck was acceptable, and oral function was satisfactory. The folded extended vertical lower TIMF is a large, simple, and reliable flap that is preferred for the reconstruction of large through-and-through defects after resection of oral carcinoma.