Background <p>The platysma myocutaneous flap is a reliable option for reconstruction of small to medium intraoral defects. However, conventional inset techniques are associated with pedicle kinking, venous congestion, and conspicuous cervical scarring.</p> Methods <p>This technical note describes a modified buccal tunneling technique for inset of a superiorly based platysma myocutaneous flap. The modification focuses on tunnel orientation, controlled tunnel width, and pedicle protection to preserve vascular integrity and optimize the arc of rotation.</p> Results <p>The modified technique permits smooth flap transfer through a short, wide submucosal tunnel created between the facial artery and mental nerve, minimizing torsion and compression of the vascular pedicle. This results in improved flap reliability, reduced intraoperative manipulation, and satisfactory aesthetic outcomes at both donor and recipient sites.</p> Conclusions <p>The modified tunneling approach simplifies inset of the platysma myocutaneous flap while enhancing pedicle safety. It is particularly useful for selected intraoral defects where free flap reconstruction is not indicated.</p>

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A Modified Tunneling Technique for the Platysma Myocutaneous Flap: Technical Insight

  • Aksha Bhargava,
  • Vikas Kunwar Singh,
  • Ruchika Tiwari

摘要

Background

The platysma myocutaneous flap is a reliable option for reconstruction of small to medium intraoral defects. However, conventional inset techniques are associated with pedicle kinking, venous congestion, and conspicuous cervical scarring.

Methods

This technical note describes a modified buccal tunneling technique for inset of a superiorly based platysma myocutaneous flap. The modification focuses on tunnel orientation, controlled tunnel width, and pedicle protection to preserve vascular integrity and optimize the arc of rotation.

Results

The modified technique permits smooth flap transfer through a short, wide submucosal tunnel created between the facial artery and mental nerve, minimizing torsion and compression of the vascular pedicle. This results in improved flap reliability, reduced intraoperative manipulation, and satisfactory aesthetic outcomes at both donor and recipient sites.

Conclusions

The modified tunneling approach simplifies inset of the platysma myocutaneous flap while enhancing pedicle safety. It is particularly useful for selected intraoral defects where free flap reconstruction is not indicated.