TYPE II HYPOPHARYNGEAL DEFECT RECONSTRUCTION - A SINGLE INSTITUTION EXPERIENCE

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Hypopharyngeal reconstruction presents diverse options based on defect size.
• Optimal reconstruction minimizes complications, ensures functional recovery, and reduces donor site morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate functional outcomes of different flap reconstruction methods for type II hypopharyngeal defects.
• Compare radial forearm free flap (RFFF), jejunum, and gastric tube reconstructions.

Main Methods:

• Non-randomized retrospective cohort study over 10 years.
• Data collected on 31 patients with type II hypopharyngeal defects.
• Functional outcomes assessed: complications, hospital stay, and swallowing function.

Main Results:

• Radial forearm free flap (RFFF) group: 3/9 flap failures.
• Jejunum group: no donor site morbidity.
• Gastric tube group: 3 minor abdominal wound dehiscences.
• RFFF showed highest failure rate; shortest hospital stay in RFFF group.
• No significant difference in early swallowing function.

Conclusions:

• Choice of flap for hypopharynx reconstruction depends on donor site factors and functional outcomes.
• Free jejunal flaps and gastric tubes offer superior functional results compared to RFFFs for type II defects.