Research progress of pedicled flaps for defect repair and reconstruction after head and neck tumor resection

Abstract

To summarize the current status of pedicled flaps for defect repair and reconstruction after head and neck tumor resection, and to present its application prospects. Related literature was reviewed, and the role evolution of pedicled flaps in the reconstruction of head and neck defects were discussed. The advance, anatomical basis, indications, advantages, disadvantages, and modification of several frequently used pedicled flaps were summarized. The evolution of pedicled flaps application showed a resurgence trend in recent years. Some new pedicled flaps, e.g., submental artery island flap, supraclavicular artery island flap, submandibular gland flap, and facial artery musculomucosal flap, can acquire equivalent or even superior outcome to free flaps in certain cases. Technological modification of some traditional pedicled flaps, e.g., nasolabial flap, pectoralis major myocutaneous flap, latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap, temporalis myofascial flap, and temporoparietal fascial flap, can further broaden their indications. These traditional flaps still occupy an irreplaceable role, especially in patients with poor condition and institution with immature microsurgical techniques. The pedicled flaps still plays an important role in head and neck reconstruction after tumor resection. In certain cases, they demonstrate some advantages over free flaps, e.g., more convenient harvest, more rapid recovery, less expenditure, and better functional and aesthetic effect.