Osteomyocutaneous flap reconstruction for major mandibular defects.

Mandibular defects after composite resections for carcinoma of the buccal mucosa require immediate restitution of both form and function with an acceptable cosmetic result. The pectoralis major osteomyocutaneous flap (PM-OMC) provides restoration of bone, soft tissue and skin with minimum morbidity. The procedure is technically simple, and in our series reconstruction using this flap has been performed by consultants, fellows and residents in training. We present a series of 116 PM-OMC flaps with good postoperative mastication in more than 70% of cases, and satisfactory swallowing and intelligible speech in 85% patients.