The inferiorly based sternocleidomastoid muscle flap offers improved cosmetic results in patients undergoing total parotidectomy. However, there is a decreased return of greater auricular nerve function, probably attributable to relocation of the nerve stump anteriorly. Benefit was not seen in prevention of Frey syndrome measured objectively; however, the group having reconstruction had fewer clinical symptoms of gustatory sweating or flushing.

Consideration of these factors, as well as the reviewed literature, should facilitate patient selection for salvage protocols.

To develop an animal model to investigate the survival of split-thickness skin grafts (STSGs) on bone without periosteum, to compare STSG attachment to bone with and without periosteum, and to determine the effect of fibrin glue on STSG attachment to bone.

No abstract