Analysis of recurrence and survival after hypopharyngeal ablative surgery with radial forearm free flap reconstruction.
OBJECTIVE
To address the controversial acceptable distal resection margin for the surgical management of patients with hypopharyngeal cancer.


METHODS
Retrospective review of the records of 28 consecutive patients who underwent pharyngoesophagectomy and reconstruction with radial forearm free flaps between 1996 to 2001.


METHODS
The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival and recurrence-free time.


RESULTS
The minimum follow-up time was 2 years, and there were 14 (50%) patients who had recurrences. Analysis revealed that only one (3%) patient experienced a recurrence at the inferior resection margin, the junction of the free flap reconstruction, and the cervical esophagus. Estimated 4 year survival was 48.5%.


CONCLUSIONS
Total laryngopharyngectomy and partial esophagectomy with radial forearm free flap reconstructions in appropriately selected patients with hypopharyngeal cancer does not compromise local recurrence rates at the distal esophageal margin.
Scharpf
Joseph
J
Head and Neck Institute, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Esclamado
Ramon M
RM
D016629:Esophagectomy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007012:Hypopharyngeal Neoplasms / Q000401:mortality / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery*; D007825:Laryngectomy; D008297:Male; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000401:mortality*; D010611:Pharyngectomy; D011182:Postoperative Care; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D016019:Survival Analysis; D013997:Time Factors