Fascia Temporalis Free Flap for Cricotracheal Reconstruction: A Novel Approach

Abstract

The aim of tracheal reconstruction is to provide an airtight and noncollapsible airway covered with a suitable epithelial lining. To date, no ideal treatment is available for large tracheal defects. We report 4 patients who underwent one-stage reconstruction for a cricotracheal stenosis with a free temporoparietal fascia flap and costal cartilage grafts. Closure of tracheostoma was achieved for all patients. The main advantage of this flap compared with the free radial forearm flap is that it supplies a more suitable lining allowing the reepithelialization process with respiratory epithelium. This one-stage procedure provides a reliable construct to substitute for large tracheal defects, even in areas previously exposed to an operation or radiotherapy.