Role of Pectoralis major flap in carotid artery protection

Rupture of the carotid artery is a disastrous complication in head and neck surgery and usually results from and interplay of rediotherapy, wound dehiscence and salivary contamination. Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap was utilised in three patients with an impending blowout and in three others with carotid rupture to promote revascularisation of the vessel wall, help seal salivary leak and obtain cutaneous tissues for closure of wound dehiscence. Following repair with pectoralis major myocutaneous flap no further vessel problems recurred in any patient.