Myodermal flap for reconstruction of oral mucosa.

Purpose Myocutaneous flaps were commonly used to repair the mucosal defect that results from ablative tumor surgery. However, skin is not a perfect substitute for the oral mucosa because it can lead to poor hygiene due to hair growth and desquamation. The myodermal flaps used for the reconstruction of mucosa in oncologic surgery of the oral cavity. Material and method Pectoralis major and platysma myodermal flaps were applied in 8 patients for the purpose of intraoral reconstruction in cancer surgery. The skin paddle of the flaps denuded by shaving the epithelial layer was transferred into the oral cavity to cover the mucosal defect. Result The flaps epithelialized secondarily without severe contraction. Conclusion The myodermal flap is a promising option for reconstruction of the oral mucosa.