Composite resection with neck dissection and PMMC flap reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to treat head and neck cancers. It involves removing the tumour along with surrounding tissues and lymph nodes in the neck and then using a PMMC (pectoralis major myocutaneous) flap to reconstruct the defect.
The PMMC flap is a piece of tissue that is taken from the chest area, including the muscle, skin, and blood vessels. The flap is then transplanted to the site of the defect to replace the removed tissue. The PMMC flap is commonly used for reconstructive surgery in the head and neck area because it is a reliable and versatile flap that can provide adequate tissue bulk and vascularity.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the neck to access the affected area, then removes the tumour and surrounding tissues. The lymph nodes in the neck are also removed in case they are affected as well. The PMMC flap is then taken from the chest area and transplanted to the site of the defect in the neck.
Following the surgery, patients have to spend several days in the hospital for observation and recovery. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection. Patients may also require physical therapy and speech therapy to recover and restore function to the affected area.