Technical Considerations and Outcome Analysis of Using Extended Bipaddle Pectoralis Major Myocutaneous Flaps for Reconstructions of Large and Complex Oral Cavity Defects: Expanding the Horizons

Versatility of the myocutaneous pectoralis major flap in oncology reconstruction: A literature review and practical application

Pectoralis major muscle flaps are considered versatile and allow large reconstructions of anatomical defects within a single surgical procedure. Considered a "workhorse" due to these characteristics, the pectoralis major muscle is an excellent option for surgical reconstruction. Several uses of this flap are described in the literature, such as protection of the jugulocarotid system after cervical lymph node dissection, oral, cervical, breast, diaphragmatic, hypopharyngeal, pharyngeal, laryngeal, and esophageal reconstructions.

Quality of life and swallowing outcomes following major glossectomy: A prospective single-center experience

BACKGROUND

There exists a lacuna in the structured reporting of swallowing dysfunction and quality of life (QoL) outcome following major glossectomy.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study to assess the swallowing dysfunction and QoL following STG (subtotal glossectomy) or NTG (near total glossectomy) over a 6-month period using FEES and PAS scale, MDADI, and FACT-HN.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were available for analysis. The pre- and post-adjuvant evaluation revealed a statistically significant improvement in the composite MDADI and FACT-HN scores. Subscale analysis of FACT-HN scores revealed maximum deficit in the head and neck cancer-specific score domain followed by functional domain and social well-being domain, with serial improvement noted in the post-adjuvant setting.

CONCLUSION

This study showed serial improvement in terms of swallowing dysfunction although social and functional well-being domains related to QoL continued to reveal major deficits. Better outcomes were seen with preservation of bilateral base of tongue and mandible.