Trapezius osteomyocutaneous flap for mandibular reconstruction.

The recent introduction of myocutaneous flaps has kindled the interest in including bone in the flap to reconstruct the anterior mandibular arch and floor of mouth--still one of the most challenging reconstructions in head and neck surgery. The trapezius osteomyocutaneous compound flap has certain advantages over other osteomyocutaneous flaps; the scapula, being a flat bone, receives relatively more blood supply from the periosteum. The absence of bone resorption at more than two years postoperatively has been encouraging, and it has been possible to reconstruct mandible from angle to angle.