Reconstruction of the head and neck region using lower trapezius musculocutaneous flaps

Abstract

Background Recent literature has indicated that free flaps are currently considered the preferred choice for head and neck reconstruction. However, head and neck cancer patients are frequently treated with chemoradiotherapy, which is often associated with a poor general and local condition, and thus, such patients are ineligible for free flap reconstruction. Therefore, other reconstruction modalities should be considered. Methods We used lower trapezius musculocutaneous (LTMC) flap based on the dorsal scapular artery to reconstruct head and neck defects that arose from head and neck cancer in 8 patients. All of the patients had undergone preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Results There were no complications except one case of partial flap necrosis; it was treated with secondary intention. Healing in the remaining patients was uneventful without hematoma, seroma, or infection. The donor sites were closed primarily. Conclusions The LTMC flap is the preferred flap for a simple, reliable, large flap with a wide arc of rotation and minor donor-site morbidity. The authors recommend this versatile island flap as an alternative to microvascular free tissue transfer for the reconstruction of defects in the head and neck region, for patients that have undergone preoperative chemoradiotherapy. © 2012 The Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.