Tracheoplasty using a suprahyoid release for adenoid cystic carcinoma: Report of an oncologic emergency case

Abstract

Anastomosis of the tracheal ends requires sufficient mobilization of the trachea because excessive tension is the principal cause of anastomotic insufficiency. Several mobilization and release techniques can be used to reduce some of the anastomotic tension of the trachea. Of these, Montgomery's suprahyoid release technique is a surgical method that severs three muscles above the hyoid bone: the mylohyoid, geniohyoid, and genioglossus. Of these, we present the suprahyoid release technique here because we believe that it is superior to the other mobilization techniques, particularly supralaryngeal release. This is the first report to approach this subject from both anatomical and functional perspectives. In summary, we performed a tracheoplasty requiring a suprahyoid release for a 55-year-old female with adenoid cystic carcinoma as an oncologic emergency. We should master the supralaryngeal release, particularly wide resection of the trachea, because this technique provides sufficient mobilization, with no dysphagia or complications.