Application of internal mammary artery perforator flap for tracheostoma and anterior cervical defect

Objective To investigate the application of pedicled internal mammary artery perforator(IMAP) flap for tracheostoma and anterior cervical defect. Methods From April to December 2009, 4 IMAP flaps, based on the second internal mammary artery perforator, were used for two cases of tracheostoma and two cases of anterior cervical skin defect. The flap size was (4-7) cm× ( 10-13 )cm.Results 3 of 4 flaps survived completely. Partial necrosis happened in one flap. The defects at donor sites were closed directly. Conclusions The IMAP flap is a new method for head and neck defect. It is very suitable for tracheostoma and cervical skin defect, with less morbidity at donor site. Key words: Surgical flaps;  Head and neck neoplasms;  Reconstructive surgical procedures