Three years of experience with the free vastus lateralis flap: an analysis of 30 consecutive reconstructions in maxillofacial surgery.

Free vastus lateralis flaps for maxillofacial reconstruction were used in 30 patients. On the basis of its anatomy, this flap can be inserted as a musculocutaneous or musculofascial transplant in slim or normal-weight patients if extensive defects exist. The microvascular transfer is facilitated and accelerated by the long and high-caliber vascular pedicle and flap raising, which can be performed at the same time as tumor resection. We see indications for the musculocutaneous transplant in almost all sections of the oral cavity, particularly for tongue reconstruction; the vastus lateralis flap can be inserted in a purely muscular form for defect coverage on the scalp in connection with split skin. The donor defect is minimal functionally and aesthetically, and the success rate is approximately 90% for all flap transfers.