Reconstruction of the mandible using the scapular spine pedicled upon trapezius muscle; description of the posterior approach to the transverse cervical vessels.

We describe the reconstruction of the mandible using the spine of the scapula pedicled upon trapezius in a woman who had undergone previous mandibular irradiation and surgery. We show how the vascular supply to the trapezius scapular spine compound flap can be approached posteriorly and the spine of the scapula used to provide good length and contour for replacement of a wide mandibular defect.