Abstract
Avulsed cartilage may be "banked" or preserved by subcutaneous implantation in the traumatized patient for delayed reconstruction of the defect when immediate reconstruction is contraindicated. The perichondrium of the avulsed cartilage should be preserved if possible. In the reconstructive procedure the cartilage graft must be surrounded by vascularized flaps developed from adjacent neck tissue. These vascularized flaps increase the local vascular supply for revascularization of the free graft. In addition, they allow complete separation of the free graft from the airway to minimize the possibility of secondary infection arising from the airway. Mucosal coverage of the defect does not appear to be necessary as long as well-vascularized soft tissue is available for complete coverage of the defect. The use of this technique may be considered for patients with avulsion of portions of the laryngeal cartilages when immediate reconstruction is contraindicated or when the viability of adjacent soft tissue necessary for reconstruction is uncertain. The success of this procedure may be related to the adequacy of the closure or separation of the airway from the free cartilage graft, and the ability to provide coverage of the graft with vascular tissue to allow graft revascularization. This new technique follows the traditional principles vital for successful management of laryngotracheal injuries. This procedure provides an additional method of therapy for those patients with an avulsion injury of the laryngeal cartilage. Additional surgical procedures must be performed utilizing the indications and principles presented here before this method is universally accepted for the management of severe laryngotracheal injury.
Published Version
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