The Rectus Abdominis Flap

The rectus abdominis flap is a versatile, workhorse flap. It is ideal for head and neck reconstruction requiring large, soft tissue bulk without bony reconstruction, particularly for defects of the tongue, orbits, maxilla, cheek, posterior mandible, and cranial base. Its ability to be folded upon itself and harvested with multiple skin paddles makes it versatile for complex three-dimensional and multilaminar defects. Its pedicle size and length and consistent vascular anatomy make the flap a reliable choice for head and neck reconstruction. Its indications in head and neck reconstruction and technique in harvest are elaborated in this chapter.