[Reconstruction of hypopharyngeal cavity with neck reverse rectangular thinned skin flap]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Oncology
• Plastic Surgery

Context:

• Hypopharyngeal defects often result from squamous cell carcinoma resection.
• Reconstruction of these defects is crucial for restoring function and quality of life.
• Traditional methods may have limitations in terms of functional outcomes and complication rates.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the neck reverse rectangular thinned skin flap for hypopharyngeal defect reconstruction.
• To assess postoperative swallowing function and convalescence in patients undergoing this procedure.
• To determine the long-term outcomes and complication profile of this reconstructive technique.

Summary:

• A thinned reverse skin flap was designed and utilized for hypopharyngeal reconstruction in 20 patients with hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.
• The study reported no flap complications, spontaneous healing of fistulas in most cases, and successful management of one anastomotic stenosis.
• Survival rates at 3 and 5 years were 50% and 33.3%, respectively, indicating the flap's viability in oncologic reconstruction.

Impact:

• The neck reverse rectangular thinned skin flap offers an effective and technically manageable option for hypopharyngeal reconstruction.
• This technique demonstrates a high success rate, potentially improving functional outcomes for patients with hypopharyngeal cancer.
• The findings support the adoption of this flap as a preferred choice for surgeons performing hypopharyngeal defect reconstruction.