Total reconstruction of the hypopharynx with tongue flap and dermal graft.

Abstract

A one stage procedure utilizing a posterior tongue flap and dermal graft for reconstruction of the hypopharynx following total laryngopharyngectomy is described. The operation has been performed upon four patients, with satisfactory to excellent results as far as deglutition is concerned: one patient had some dysphagia initially, was dilated and then progressed to excellent deglutition: two patients with satisfactory to excellent deglutition: one patient with excellent deglutition initially, but finally developed a stricture, which has been treated with dilatation with satisfactory results. Follow-up reveals: one patient is alive and well two years and four months; another patient is alive with recurrent disease in the contralateral neck, while two patients have expired 22½ months and seven months, without evidence of local disease.