Technical innovations

Cervicopectoral flap in head and neck cancer surgery

Eray Copcu¹ , Kubilay Metin² , Alper Aktas³ , Nazan S Sivrioglu¹ and Yücel Öztan³

¹Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical Faculty, Adnan Menderes, University, Aydin, Turkey

²Department of E.N.T, Medical Faculty, Adnan Menderes University, Aydin, Turkey

³Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ataturk Training Hospital, Izmir, Turkey

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World Journal of Surgical Oncology 2003, 1:29doi:10.1186/1477-7819-1-29

Published:	22 December 2003

Abstract

Background

Reconstruction of the head and neck after adequate resection of primary tumor and neck dissection is a challenge. It should be performed at one sitting in advanced tumors. Defects caused by the resection should be closed with flaps which match in color, texture and hair bearing characteristics with the face. Cervicopectoral flap is a one such flap from chest and neck skin mainly used to cover the cheek defects.

Methods

This study included twelve patients presenting with cancer of the head and neck to Izmir Ataturk Training Hospital and Adnan Menderes University Hospital. Tumor resection and neck dissection was performed in one session by the same surgeon. A single incision was made and a medially based cervicopectoral fascio-cutaneous flap was used for surgical exposure in neck dissection and for closure of defects after tumor resection.

Results

There was no major complication. Two flaps had partial superficial epidermolysis at the suture line. Good aesthetic and functional results were achieved.

Conclusion

The cervicopectoral flap is an excellent alternative for the reconstruction of head and neck. Harvesting and application of the flap is rapid and safe. Only a single incision is sufficient for dissection and flap elevation. This flap achieves perfect surgical exposure, makes neck dissection easy and allows one to perform both tumor resection and neck dissection in one session.