Abstract
The rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap based on the inferior epigastric vessels was applied for reconstruction after oral cancer ablation. In all 5 cases, the flaps were successfully transplanted without any necrosis. This flap showed advantages compared to pectoralis major myocutaneous flap, deltopectoral flap and others. The advantages include: 1) The large skin paddle could be taken with good blood supply. 2) The inferior epigastric vessels were anatomically constant with adequate length and size for anastomoses as the nutrient vessel.3) The muscle volume could be adjusted. 4) All these procedures, such as tumor ablation, elevation of flap, reconstruction etc. could be simultaneously performed in a supine position.
We briefly reported the technique of elevating rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap, clinical course in five cases of the rectus abdominis myocutaneous reconstruction and advantages and disadvantages of this flap.
Our experience suggested that the rectus abdominis. myocutaneous flap was one of the most suitable flaps for recostruction after ablation of oral cancer.
