The versatility of pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps in the reconstruction of cancrum oris defects of children and adolescents

Abstract

The application of the recently described myocutaneous flaps in 7 cases of cancrum oris defects is shown and the consistency of the blood supply in children is stressed. The surgical anatomy is mentioned and the use of the flaps in the reconstruction of defects of the cheek, angle of mouth, lips and chin is illustrated. The excellence of the muscle island flap in preventing reankylosis if interposed into new joints in the body of the mandible is emphasised, together with the advantages over the forehead and delto-pectoral flaps when used for the same purpose.