Vertical hemipharyngolaryngectomy: reconstruction with the radial forearm free flap.
A considerable body of literature defines techniques to restore glottic function after partial laryngectomy. The authors of this paper describe a new original technique for glottic and hypopharyngeal reconstruction after vertical hemipharyngolaryngectomy. Using a radial forearm free flap including the tendon of the palmaris longus and a sensitive branch of the radial nerve, they were able to reconstruct the missing vocal cord and a pyriform fossa. This procedure permits an extended resection without the usual phonatory or swallowing inconveniences. There is no contraindication for postoperative radiotherapy. The technique and preliminary functional results are reported.
Chantrain
G
G
Head and Neck Department, Institut Jules Bordet.
Deraemaecker
R
R
Andry
G
G
Thill
M P
MP
Greant
P
P
D005542:Forearm / Q000601:surgery; D005931:Glottis / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007825:Laryngectomy / Q000379:methods*; D010611:Pharyngectomy / Q000379:methods*; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000379:methods*; D013710:Tendons / Q000637:transplantation; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000601:surgery