Oropharyngeal, Hypopharyngeal and Cervical Esophageal Reconstruction: An Experience of Pedicle Flaps.

OBJECTIVE: To review the experience of single-stage reconstruction following pharygolaryngectomy and cervical esophageal defect with pedicle flaps in a tertiary care centre.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY: Jinnah Burn and Reconstructive Surgery Centre, Lahore, from June 2007 to June 2017.

METHODOLOGY: All patients who underwent oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal and cervical esophageal reconstruction with pedicled flaps were included.

RESULTS: Thirty-two reconstructions were done, of which 16 (50.0%) were supraclavicular flaps, 12 (37.5%) were pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps (PMMF) and 4 (12.5%) platysma myocutaneous flaps (PMF). Among these, 24 (75%) were males and 8 (25%) females. The mean hospital stay was 18.75 +5.45 days. Complications were noted in 12 (37.5%), salivary fistula being the most frequent found in 6 (18.75%). Wound dehiscence was noted in 4 (12.5%), partial flap necrosis and wound infection present in 1 (3.1%) each.

CONCLUSION: Oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal and cervical esophageal reconstruction with pedicle flaps is still very useful and safe to perform, associated with minimal flap and donor site complications.