The infrahyoid myocutaneous flap for reconstruction after resection of head and neck cancer.

From May 1979 to August 1984, 112 infrahyoid myocutaneous flaps (IHMCFs) were used for reconstruction of the tongue after resection of lingual carcinoma (67 flaps in 63 consecutive cases) and for repair of defects after resection of carcinomas of buccal mucosa (23 cases), floor of mouth (8 cases), parotid gland (7 cases), and other malignancies (7 cases). Ten IHMCFs were extended to Ludwig's angle for repairing the open defect of the cheek or combined defect in the buccal mucosa and hard palate. The donor sites of 76 IHMCFs could be sutured primarily. The flap was successful in 90% of the cases (101 of 112 cases). Postoperatively, 94% of the cases (60 of 64 cases) of reconstructed tongue had good deglutition and 78% of the cases (50 of 64 cases) gave satisfactory enunciation. IHMCF is a new, versatile, reliable, and convenient flap suitable for repairing the defects in and around the oral cavity, particularly in the tongue, even in aged and weak patients.