From Free Flaps to Pectoralis Major Flaps: A Workhorse in Limited Resources
Abstract
Objective: To assess the functional and aesthetic outcomes of using pectoralis major flaps in patients with head and neck region soft tissue defects after oral squamous cell carcinoma tumors in a resource-limited setting.
Methodology: This prospective study was conducted on patients who received repair of post-ablative defects at the plastic surgery unit of Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences and Bilawal Medical College, Jamshoro, between October 2022 and March 2023. All patients admitted to the plastic surgery unit during the study period for reconstruction of post-ablative defects using subsequent PMC flap repair for head and neck region soft tissue defects after oral squamous cell carcinoma that were surgically treated and aged between 20 and 70 years. All major and minor PMC flap-related and flap-unrelated complications were assessed.
Results: Among 78 patients, 63 (80.7%) were male and 15 (19.3%) were female, with a mean age of 34.10 ±12.10 years (range: 24-70 years). The Buccal mucosa was the most common location for oral cavity cancer, whereas the base of the tongue and floor of the mouth were used for reconstruction. Infections and wound dehiscence were the most common consequences, and the reconstruction site was statistically significant (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Despite encountering a few minor complications both associated and isolated to the PMMC flap, the survival rate of the flap remains high, while the occurrence of complete flap necrosis is extremely rare.
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