The role of the rectus abdominis flap in head and neck reconstruction

Abstract

The rectus abdominis free flap, based on the deep inferior epigastric artery and vein has been used extensively in breast reconstruction. It is a reliable soft tissue donor, has a long pedicle, favourable diameter vessels and is ideally suited for large defects. The distribution of perforators allow for versatility in designing the flap and a variety of patterns of the skin paddle may be used. It can be harvested as a muscle-only or myocutaneous flap. However, despite these advantages, its application in head and neck reconstruction is not widely appreciated.