Vertical extended hemi crico-laryngectomy and reconstruction with a prefabricated tracheal free flap--initial results

We describe our experiences of treating three patients with recurrent T3 squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx, following initial treatment with radiotherapy; using the technique of partial crico-laryngectomy and autologous pre-fabricated tracheal flap reconstruction as described in 1998 by Delaere (1). We have found the technique to be technically challenging. The patients require extensive speech and swallowing rehabilitation following surgery, but the functional result offers significant advantages over the other surgical salvage procedures of total or near-total laryngectomy. We describe our early results of three patients that we have treated using this technique.