THE PLATYSMA MYOCUTANEOUS FLAP - INDICATIONS AND CAVEATS

The platysma myocutaneous flap has enjoyed limited popularity despite its versatility, dependability, and ease of harvesting. In this articl e, we describe 12 consecutive patients who underwent platysma flap rec onstruction of various oral cavity and oropharyngeal defects. Complica tions included loss of one skin paddle, one pharyngocutaneous fistula, and one intraoral wound dehiscence. In all patients, bare bone was co vered or appropriate spacing between the tongue and other structures w as maintained to avoid ankyloglossia. We discuss specific indications and caveats.