[Sternocleidomastoid myocutaneous flap for reconstruction after resection of carcinoma in floor of mouth].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinic outcome and indications of sternocleidomastoid (SCM) myocutaneous flap for reconstruction after resection of carcinoma in floor of mouth.

METHODS

Thirty-two patients underwent SCM myocutaneous flap for reconstruction of the floor of mouth were reviewed. According to the clinical data and the follow-up, the appearance and function were analyzed.

RESULTS

Only one myocutaneous flap was partial necrosis in termination of the flap, and growth with granular. In eight cases, partial epidermal loss over the skin paddle occurred with secondary healing with mucosal epithelium. All patients had oral diet with good separation of the oral floor and the tongue, and had no difficulty in speech intelligibility. The patients' appearance, function and the overall quality of life were improved.

CONCLUSION

The SCM myocutaneous flap appears to be easy to use and suitable for reconstruction of the defect after resection of oral floor carcinoma, the indications of this flap should be selected carefully.