Functional Outcomes using pedicle flap reconstruction approach after pharyngolaryngectomy in laryngeal carcinoma patients

Abstract

Introduction: Total laryngectomy is the treatment of choice for advanced laryngeal cancer and after radiotherapy failure. In patients with pharyngeal invasion, it is associated with total or partial pharyngectomy, wich defect can be repaired with free or pedicle flaps.

Aim: To present a brief series of pedicle flap reconstruction approach after pharyngolaryngectomy in laryngeal carcinoma patients and functional outcomes.

Materials and Method: We looked at laryngeal cancer patient records who were treated with total laryngectomy with partial pharyngectomy and pharyngeal reconstruction with pedicle flap at “Hospital Regional de Talca” between the years 2009 and 2017, finding 6 cases, 4 of which were alive at the beginning of the study. We analized videoflourocopy swallow studies to assess mechanisms of deglutition, and presence of stenosis or fistulas. We also performed a nutritional state assessment and a quality of life questionnaire.

Results: During videodeglutition study, the 4 patients showed minimal contrast swallow delay at hypopharynx and cervical esophagus. All the patients were found eutrophic in their nutritional assessment and with no significant evidence of quality of life disturbances secondary to deglutition state.

Conclusions: Partial pharyngeal reconstruction using pedicle flaps in patients who underwent total laryngectomy with partial pharyngectomy allows to maintain an adequate deglutition without dysphagia, as well as a good nutritional state.