ADVANCE OF PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIOE SURGICAL TECHNIQUE IN HEAD AND NECK RECONSTRUCTION

Abstract

In this article, plastic and reconstructive surgical methods developed for obtaining improved functional and aesthetic results in head and neck reconstruction are described. 1) Maxillary reconstruction: Role of buttress reconstruction in zygomaticomaxillary skeletal defects with the vascularized costal cartilages, scapula bone, and/or rib was recognized to be very important. 2) Tongue reconstruction: Satisfactory results were achieved for dynamic reconstruction of the tongue and deglutition muscles using the rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap with motor nerve coaptation following subtotal glossectomy. 3) Superior mediastinal reconstruction: An adequate combination of reconstructive techniques including digestive tract restoration, creation of superior mediastinal tracheostoma, wrapping the major vessels, and obliteration of dead spaces provided good results in superior mediastinal reconstruction.