The application of pectoralis major myocutaneous flap in reconstruction of surgical defect for oropharyngeal cancer

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical value of using pectoralis major myocutaneous flap in surgery with various adverse factors for advanced oropharyngeal cancer. Methods 15 patients who presented with advanced oropharyngeal cancer were performed for radical surgery, and pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps were applied for immediate reconstruction of surgical defect.In all cases, various adverse factors(advanced age, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, radiation damage, etc.) were existed.The effect of reconstruction was observed. Results All surgeries were successful, and all patients tided over perioperative period.The average time of operation was 5 hours with a range of 4 to 6 hours.The average time cost for flap preparation was 40 minutes with a range of 40 to 55 minutes.The completely survival rate of flaps was 93%.Partial skin necrosis occurred in 1 case(7%); and submandibular fistula occurred in another one(7%). Two patients(13%) developed wound infection.All of them were healed by symptomatic treatment. Conclusion For the patients with advanced oropharyngeal cancer and various adverse factors of surgery, pectoralis major myocutaneous flap can be used as salvage measure in reconstruction of surgical defect, which is more secure than free flap. Key words: Musculocutaneous flap; Pectoralis muscles; Oropharyngeal neoplasms; Repair surgery