Application of pectoralis major muscle flap in the treatment of advanced tongue cancer

Objective To evaluate pectoralis major myocutaneous flap for immediate reconstruction of the tongue body and the floor of the mouth after radical resection of tongue cancer.Methods Form January 2004 to October 2005,five patients with advanced tongue cancer were selected to treat with surgery,and pectoralis major myocutaneous flap were applied for immediate reconstruction of total body of tongue and floor of mouth.Results Five flaps survived well,with no submandibular fistula,infection,and other complications.After 6 to 22 month follow-up,the reconstructed tongue and floor of mouth worked well and the speaking and swallowing functions were satisfactory.Conclusion The island pectoralis major myocutaneous flap could be an ideal selection for the immediate reconstruction of the total tongue body and the floor of mouth.