Clavipectoral osteomyocutaneous free flap in oromandibular reconstruction.

Abstract

Introduction: Mandibular reconstruction continues to challenge most head and neck reconstructive surgeons despite the tremendous advances in surgical and fixation techniques. We recently described the clavipectoral osteocutaneous flap for mandibular reconstruction. This flap encompasses the clavicle and the clavicular head of the pectoralis major with overlying skin.

Objectives: The purpose of this article is to report our prospective clinical experience with the use of clavipectoral osteocutaneous flap in the reconstruction of oromandibular defects.

Study design: Prospective case series.

Methods: Five patients with significant mandibular defects underwent reconstruction using the newly described clavipectoral flap. All patients had shoulder range of motion testing preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Panorex and bone scans were obtained on the seventh postoperative day.

Results: All five flaps survived. The transferred clavicles demonstrated good vascularity on the postoperative bone scans. The shoulder morbidity was minimal, with all patients resuming their preoperative level of activity.

Conclusions: The clavipectoral flap has bone and soft tissue components that are especially suited for composite mandibular defects, but it should be used as a second-line flap owing to the short pedicle and the regular need for vein grafts.