Pedicled osteomyocutaneous pectoralis major flap with osseous rib harvest for salvage mandibular reconstruction: Case and technique

Head Neck. 2024 Feb;46(2):447-451. doi: 10.1002/hed.27586. Epub 2023 Dec 5.

Abstract

In the era of free flap reconstruction, mandibular defects are routinely reconstructed with osseous free flaps, and non-free flap bony reconstruction options are limited. A patient with T4N0 mandibular squamous cell carcinoma underwent resection with fibula free flap reconstruction of a parasymphyseal to angle defect. After free flap failure due to venous congestion, the flap was explanted. He declined additional free flap reconstruction and elected to proceed with pedicled osteomyocutaneous pectoralis major with rib. In this case presentation, we discuss the technical details of harvest of this flap using the 6th rib. The pedicled osteomyocutaneous pectoralis major flap with osseous rib harvest, which is infrequently described in the literature, remains a viable option for bony reconstruction, particularly in the salvage setting.

Keywords: free flap failure; head and neck cancer; oral cavity reconstruction; osteomyocutaneous flap; pedicled flap.

MeSH terms

  • Free Tissue Flaps*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mandibular Reconstruction*
  • Pectoralis Muscles / transplantation
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures*
  • Ribs / transplantation