A new option for hypopharyngeal reconstruction with transverse cervical artery perforator flap: a case report

We report a case of a 61-year-old man with T2N2M0 hypopharyngeal carcinoma. In this case, the right vertical hemipharyngolaryngectomy (VHPL) and the right radical neck dissection were performed. At the same time, flap was taken from the superficial branch of transverse cervical artery for hypopharyngeal reconstruction. Postoperative wound healed smoothly. The patient resumed normal oral intake and was free of the tracheal tube at the 12th and 15th days after surgery, respectively. The superficial branch of transverse cervical artery flap is a new option to successfully reconstruct hypopharynx and has many advantages, such as no additional incision, a thin shape, local transfer, and a reliable blood supply.