Pharyngoesophageal reconstruction using a fabricated forearm free flap

A new microsurgical alternative in reconstruction of the pharynx and cervical esophagus is reported. A trapezoidal forearm flap is fabricated into an inverted skin tube and placed in the pharyngoesophageal defect. Although microvascular anastomoses are required to revascularize the transferred forearm flap, the long and large nutrient vessels of the flap make anastomoses easy and reliable. None of our 12 patients demonstrated any necrosis of the transferred flap. This one-stage, less invasive operation for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction greatly benefits older persons, who are the more likely to be involved with pharyngoesophageal carcinomas.