The superiorly based platysma flap for oral reconstruction in conjunction with neck dissection: A case series

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to access the reliability and use of the superiorly based platysma flap for reconstruction of small and medium oral defects. Patients and Methods: This case series consists of 5 patients who were reconstructed with a superiorly based platysma flap for defects of the following oral region: buccal mucosa, floor of the mouth, and lateral gingiva. The flaps were monitored for complications, including skin loss and ischemia in the postoperative period. Results: Three patients (60%) had some skin sloughing in the recipient site. None of the patients had complications in the donor site. Conclusion: The superiorly based platysma flap can survive after the facial artery has been ligated, which is the normal procedure during neck dissection. If skin sloughing occurs, it is usually inconsequential for intraoral reconstruction because the underlying muscle remains viable and undergoes epithelialization. (c) 2007 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons