Vascularised fasciocutaneous flap for reconstruction of the hypopharynx

The hypopharyngeal mucosa is a thin, pliable lining, which often needs replacement after tumor excision, stenosis and fistulae. The pectoralis major flap (Ariyan and Krizek, 1977) has brought an element of safety and reliability to one-stage pharyngeal reconstruction. The major disadvantage of these flaps is their bulk (2). The vascularised fasciocutaneous flap (especially the radial forearm flap) is a good alternative to be used in pharyngeal repair.