Good Swallowing Function Research Articles

Predicting Swallowing Recovery in Subacute Stroke Patients via Temporal and Spatial Parameters of Videofluoroscopy.

The purpose of this study was to identify the temporal and spatial parameters of videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) that could predict the recovery of swallowing function in subacute stroke patients. We included 102 patients who were admitted to the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine between 2019 and 2022. Patients were classified into good and poor prognosis groups according to whether they had restored prestroke swallowing function or were able to consume sufficient nutrition via oral feeding to meet their body's needs. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to identify the predictors. Calibration and discrimination were tested using the Hosmer-Lemeshow test and area under the curve (AUC), respectively. Of the 102 included patients, 51 had a good prognosis for swallowing function within 6 months of onset. The final multivariate regression model included three significant factors: laryngeal closure duration (LCD) (OR: 0.998; 95% CI: 0.996-0.999; p < 0.05), maximum width of the upper esophageal sphincter opening (MWUESO) (OR: 1.251; 95% CI: 1.073-1.458; p < 0.05), and pharyngeal residual grade (PRG) (p < 0.05). The shorter LCD and larger MWUESO were positive predictors of good swallowing function outcomes, while higher PRG was a negative predictor of good outcomes. The AUC for PRG, MWUESO, and LCD were 0.767 (p < 0.05), 0.738 (p < 0.05), and 0.681 (p < 0.05), respectively. Identifying prognostic factors for the recovery of swallowing function in patients with poststroke dysphagia is essential for developing treatment strategies. The findings of this study may provide an important reference for developing appropriate therapeutic interventions to promote the recovery of swallowing function in stroke patients.

A Simplified Protocol for Tracheostomy Decannulation in Patients Weaned off Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation.

Introduction The criteria for the removal of the tracheostomy tube (decannulation) vary from center to center. Some perform an endoscopic evaluation under anesthesia or computed tomography, which adds to the cost and discomfort. We use a simple two-part protocol to determine the eligibility and carry out the decannulation: part I consists of airway and swallowing assessment through an office-based flexible laryngotracheoscopy, and part II involves a tracheostomy capping trial. Objective The primary objective was to determine the safety and efficacy of the simplified decannulation protocol followed at our center among the patients who were weaned off the mechanical ventilator and exhibited good swallowing function clinically. Methods Of the patients considered for decannulation between November 1st, 2018, and October 31st, 2020, those who had undergone tracheostomy for prolonged mechanical ventilation were included. The efficacy to predict successful decannulation was calculated by the decannulation rate among patients who had been deemed eligible for decannulation in part I of the protocol, and the safety profile was defined by the protocol's ability to correctly predict the chances of risk-free decannulation among those submitted to part II of the protocol. Results Among the 48 patients included (mean age: 46.5 years; male-to-female ratio: 3:1), the efficacy of our protocol in predicting the successful decannulation was of 87.5%, and it was was safe or reliable in 95.45%. Also, in our cohort, the decannulation success and the duration of tracheotomy dependence were significantly affected by the neurological status of the patients. Conclusion The decannulation protocol consisting of office-based flexible laryngotracheoscopy and capping trial of the tracheostomy tube can safely and effectively aid the decannulation process.

Evaluation of chronological changes in videofluorographic findings after transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery to reveal mechanism of dysphagia

ObjectivesTransoral surgery preserves good swallowing function in most cases, however, postoperative dysphagia sometimes leads to fatal complication such as aspiration pneumonia. We investigated the chronological changes in swallowing function have not been revealed relationship with dysphagia. The primary aim of this study was to reveal the mechanism of dysphagia following transoral surgery by analyzing chronological videofluorography (VF) findings. Moreover, the secondary aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between mechanism of dysphagia and risk factors of patients to clarify the risk for dysphagia lead to prevention of postoperative complications. Methods22 patients who underwent transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery (TOVS) for either supraglottic or hypopharyngeal cancer were evaluated swallowing function. We performed VF during the preoperative, postoperative acute, and stable phases and investigated the chronological changes in the VF findings. The following parameters were evaluated by VF: horizontal distance of laryngeal movement, vertical distance of laryngeal elevation, laryngeal elevation delay time (LEDT), Bolus Residue Scale (BRS) scores, and Penetration Aspiration Scale (PAS) scores. Additionally, we evaluated risk factors for postoperative aspiration by investigating relationships between preoperative VF parameters, age of patients, history of radiation therapy, resection area, tumor (T) stage, postoperative Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and PAS and BRS scores. ResultsThe median time at which oral feeding was resumed in this study was 9 (2–200) days. The patients who had postoperative acute PAS scores of 4 and above exhibited delays in resuming oral ingestion after surgery. TOVS did not impair laryngeal elevation and LEDT; however, the BRS and PAS scores temporarily worsened in the acute phase compared to the preoperative scores. These scores almost recovered to their preoperative states in the stable phase, and both the BRS and PAS scores worsened and recovered concurrently. Patients who exhibited poor vertical distance in laryngeal elevation as observed via preoperative VF or who had histories of radiation therapy had worse PAS scores in postoperative acute phase VF. Patients with broad resection areas had worse BRS scores in postoperative acute phase VF. ConclusionTOVS didn't impair the function of laryngeal elevation and elicitation of the swallowing reflex whereas pharyngeal bolus clearance, laryngeal penetration, and aspiration temporarily deteriorated concurrently but eventually almost recovered to their baseline values.Patients with histories of radiotherapy, poor laryngeal elevation, and broad resection areas are at the risk of postoperative dysphagia after TOVS. Patients with these risk factors need appropriate evaluation before resuming postoperative oral intake.

Examination of Suprahyoid Muscle Resection and Other Factors Affecting Swallowing Function in Patients With Advanced Oral Cancer After Surgical Resection and Reconstruction.

Dysphagia is one of the most common adverse effects associated with oral cancer therapy and could greatly impair postoperative quality of life. The objective of this study was to analyze postoperative swallowing outcomes and factors influencing postoperative swallowing function in patients with advanced oral cancer who underwent primary reconstruction after surgical resection to identify patients at risk of experiencing severe dysphagia after immediate reconstruction of surgical defects, and to determine an ideal approach to provide appropriate perioperative interventions. The swallowing status was evaluated at 4 week postoperatively using the Functional Oral Intake Scale. We also analyzed the effects of patient, tumor, surgical, and other factors on postoperative swallowing function. The study included 67 patients. At 4 weeks postoperatively, 11 patients showed reduced swallowing function, whereas 56 patients showed good swallowing function. The number of resected suprahyoid muscles (odds ratio, 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-2.32; P=0.035) was an independent factor influencing postoperative swallowing function. Thus, among patients who underwent radical resection of oral cancer with primary reconstruction, those with extensive resection of the suprahyoid muscles were at higher risk of developing postoperative dysphagia. These findings are expected to facilitate increased vigilance for dysphagia, better counseling, and appropriate rehabilitation interventions.

Long-term functional outcomes in tumour stage T2 glottic carcinoma after radiotherapy.

To evaluate the long-term functional outcomes in patients who received primary radiotherapy for tumour-node stage T2N0 glottic carcinoma, stratified for tumour extension. A cross-sectional study was performed on patients who were treated with radiotherapy for T2N0 glottic carcinoma. Four questionnaires were used to measure different aspects of functional outcome. In addition, objective evaluation and perceptual analysis were performed. Fourteen patients were included in this study. The median time between the start of radiotherapy and assessment was 42 months (range, 26-143 months). Patients reported high-level functioning, with low symptom scores and good swallowing function, and showed a median dysphonia grade of 1.5. The median Voice Handicap Index-30 score was 17.5. Patients with T2N0 glottic carcinoma treated with radiotherapy had good long-term quality of life, with low symptom scores, good swallowing functioning and slightly elevated voice outcome parameters.

Local random flaps for cervical circumferential defect or tracheoesophageal fistula reconstruction after failed gastric pull-up: Two case reports

BACKGROUNDTotal pharyngo-laryngo-esophagectomy with a reconstruction of gastric pull-up is the most common treatment method for patients with multiple primary upper digestive tract carcinomas, such as hypopharyngeal carcinoma with thoracic esophageal carcinoma. However, neck circumferential defect and tracheoesophageal fistula after gastric necrosis are still challenging problems for surgeons and patients.CASE SUMMARYThis case report presents 2 patients who underwent reconstructive surgeries using 4 local random flaps with a split thickness skin graft in the first case, and 6 local random flaps in the second case to close the circumferential defect and tracheoesophageal fistula after failed gastric pull-up. Both patients achieved good swallowing function and could take solid diet without dysphagia postoperatively.CONCLUSIONFor selected patients, local random flaps (with a split thickness skin graft) can be a simple and reliable solution for reconstructing tracheoesophageal fistula or cervical circumferential defect after gastric necrosis, especially when the necrosis extends below the thoracic inlet.

Surgical Intervention to Treat Pharyngolaryngeal Stenosis Caused by Behcet's Disease.

We aimed to summarize the surgical treatment for pharyngolaryngeal stenosis and discuss prognosis in patients with Behcet's disease. Six cases of pharyngolaryngeal stenosis caused by Behcet's disease were analyzed retrospectively. All underwent surgical treatment for pharyngolaryngeal stenosis after systematic medical treatment. The follow-up time for the 6 patients was between 1 and 12 years. Four of the 6 patients underwent adhesiolysis as their first procedure. Two of these 4 experienced recurrence of stenosis within 6 months and underwent flap repair as their second procedure. The remaining two patients underwent flap reconstruction as their first procedure and maintained good swallowing function. Three of the 6 patients underwent preoperative tracheotomy because of dyspnea. Tracheal decannulation was successful in all patients. None of the patients experienced recurrence after their final surgical procedure and all recovered to a near-normal condition. Pharyngolaryngeal stenosis caused by Behcet's disease is a rare but severe complication; surgical intervention should be considered in patients with dysphagia after systematic medical treatment.

Survival and swallowing function outcome impact factors analysis of surgery-oriented comprehensive treatment for hypopharyngeal cancer in a series of 122 patients.

Under current standards of treating highly aggressive hypopharyngeal cancer (HPC), oncological control and functional outcome are still unsatisfactory worldwide. This study explored the surgery-oriented comprehensive treatment approach based on 15years of practice. A retrospective cohort of HPC patients treated by the senior author at Chinese PLA General Hospital between Nov 2005 and Aug 2012 and Capital Medical University Beijing Friendship Hospital between May 2014 and Nov 2019 was studied. Oncological control, swallowing function, and quality of life (QoL) were assessed. In total, 122 patients were included in this study, with 11 (9.0%) cases in the early stage and 111 (91.0%) cases in the advanced stage. Five-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were 40.0% and 36.1%, respectively. The swallowing outcome was satisfactory in 90 (73.8%) patients. Tracheostomy-free survival was achieved in 55 (45.1%) patients. Multivariate cox regression analysis showed that the size of the surgical defect, local-regional recurrence, and distant metastasis were independent impact factors for OS and DFS (P < .05). Multivariate analysis showed that the logistic regression coefficients (standard error) of pharyngo-cutaneous fistula and local-regional recurrence on swallowing function were 1.274 (.532) and 1.283 (.496), respectively (P < .05). In addition, the logistic regression coefficients (standard error) of the clinical stage, local-regional recurrence, decannulation, and feeding tube on QoL were -7.803 (3.593), -7.699 (3.151), 13.853 (3.494), and -20.243 (3.696), respectively (P < .05). Surgery-oriented comprehensive treatment can give rise to good swallowing function without jeopardizing oncological control. The size of the surgical defect, local-regional recurrence, and distant metastasis were independent factors impacting OS and DFS. Pharyngo-cutaneous fistula and local-regional recurrence were independent factors impacting swallowing function. Clinical stage, local-regional recurrence, decannulation, and feeding tube were independent factors impacting QoL.

Simultaneous Restoration of Swallowing and Voice Function With Ileocolon Free Flap.

Free ileocolon flap is a reliable technique allowing simultaneous restoration of swallowing and speech. The aim is to report our 6-year experience in a single center. Thirty-seven patients treated between 2010 and 2015 were included in the study. Swallowing and speech function were evaluated in 27 patients with a 7-point and 5-point Likert scale, respectively. Moreover, 12 of them consented to voice spectrum analysis (VSA). Complications noted were: aspiration (3), esophagocutaneous fistula (2), and stricture (1). Seven patients experienced self-limited diarrhea. Regarding swallowing function, 77.8% scored ≥5 on Likert scale whereas speech Likert scale showed excellent results (score >12) in 74%. VSA demonstrated mean phonation time of 10.75 seconds, mean frequency of 131 Hz and mean dynamic range of 56 dB. In experienced hands, the ileocolon flap is safe and effective, particularly in patients with long-life expectancy, providing good swallowing and speech function without further procedures/prostheses.

Long-term outcomes of trans-oral robotic surgery-assisted total laryngectomy for recurrent laryngeal cancers.

For recurrent laryngeal cancers, trans-oral robotic surgery has been used to perform total laryngectomy, but limited cases had been reported without long-term outcome follow-up. This study aims at presenting the largest longitudinal retrospective cohort in a single tertiary referral medical center. From November 2013 to August 2017, seven patients with recurrent laryngeal cancers without evidence of neck metastasis were selected to receive trans-oral robotic surgery-assisted TL without neck dissection. The para-operative details including the surgical success rates, surgical methods, resection extent, drainage tube placement, pharyngeal wound closure, console surgical time, pathologic findings and long-term complications were reviewed and described. The study end points include survival rates and preservation of swallowing function without tube feeding. Trans-oral robotic surgery-assisted total laryngectomy was successfully performed on all seven patients with mean surgical console time of 111±66 min. Strap muscles and hyoid bone were resected like open surgery in six and five patients, respectively. For all the seven patients, there was no severe pharyngo-cutaneous fistula formation requiring repair in a second surgery, but tracheostoma stenosis was not uncommon (57%). Three patients received adjuvant chemotherapy/radiotherapy. After follow-up of 36.1±15.8months, two patients had neck recurrence, and one patient died 19months after surgery, but the other five patients were alive without disease recurrence. The overall survival rate was 85.7% (6/7), and all patients had good swallowing function without tube feeding. Trans-oral robotic surgery-assisted total laryngectomy is a feasible approach for selected patients with recurrent laryngeal cancers. The oncologic and functional outcomes were satisfactory. Further larger cohort study is worthwhile to further elucidate the value of trans-oral robotic surgery-assisted total laryngectomy.

Indication of tracheostomy extubation in patients with severe neuropathy: a Meta-analysis

To analyze the extubation indications of tracheotomy patients with severe neuropathy by Meta-analysis in order to determine the effective indication parameters for successful extubation. The literatures in databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, VIP, Web of Science, PubMed and Cochrane Library were retrieved from their establishment to April 2019. The literatures were case-control studies, cohort studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or surveys related to indication parameters for successful extubation in patients with severe neuropathy. Two researchers identified and extracted literatures and data independently. The quality of literatures was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS). Meta-analysis was performed by RevMan 5.3 software. The stability of the results were evaluated by assessing the statistical models (the fixed effects model or the random effects model) and literatures quality (inferior or superior), and by sensitivity analysis. The publication bias of literatures was assessed by funnel plot. Eleven studies involving 1 357 participants were enrolled, and the rate of successful extubation was 46.7%-97.5%. Nine studies defined successful extubation as no need of re-intubation, and other two did not explain. All studies were high quality research, with NOS score of 6-8. Meta-analysis showed that the correlation between the level of consciousness [Glasgow coma score (GCS) ≥ 8 vs. < 8: odds ratio (OR) = 3.34, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was 2.22-5.03, P < 0.001], the amount of tracheal secretions (less vs. more: OR = 13.07, 95%CI was 5.64-30.32, P < 0.001), cough reflex (with vs. without: OR = 14.33, 95%CI was 6.36-32.28, P < 0.001), swallowing function (good vs. bad: adjusted OR = 18.56,95%CI was 8.16-42.21, P < 0.001) and successful extubation was statistically significant, and the correlation between the pulmonary infection (with vs. without: adjusted OR = 1.94, 95%CI was 0.87-4.35, P = 0.11), oxygen saturation (≥ 0.95 vs. < 0.95: OR = 2.34, 95%CI was 1.11-4.91, P = 0.12), tolerance of tube plugging (good vs. bad: OR = 2.12, 95%CI was 0.67-6.71, P = 0.20), method of tube drawing (gradually vs. abruptly: OR = 0.99, 95%CI was 0.95-1.04, P = 0.93) and successful extubation was not statistically significant. Sensitivity analysis showed that the results were stable. Funnel plot showed that the studies distributed in both sides of the funnel symmetrically, indicating the publication bias of literatures was small. The effective indication of extubation is consciousness level (GCS score ≥ 8), less secretion, cough reflex and good swallowing function.

Long-Term Aspects of Quality of Life in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Treated With Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy: A 5-Year Longitudinal Follow-up and Comparison with a Normal Population Cohort

PurposeKnowledge of long-term health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with advanced head and neck cancer treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy is scarce. Methods and MaterialsHRQOL in 126 patients with advanced head and neck cancer treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy was followed longitudinally from diagnosis to 5 years after treatment with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer's QLQ-C30, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer's Head and Neck Cancer Module, and the M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory. The survivors' HRQOL was compared with an age- and sex-matched normal population cohort. ResultsAt 5 years, 73 of the 95 surviving patients had completed the study. Significant reductions in general pain (29 vs 12), head and neck (HN) pain (22 vs 14), and feeling ill (20 vs 10) were found, and emotional functioning (70 vs 83) and global quality of life (67 vs 74) improved, compared with baseline values. Conversely, dry mouth (19 vs 56), senses (8 vs 27), teeth problems (10 vs 22), opening mouth (19 vs 56), and sticky saliva (15 vs 40) were markedly worse, although significant improvements had occurred over time after treatment. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory scores >80 at 5 years indicated good swallowing function. In a subgroup analysis, dry mouth and senses were significantly better in patients treated with chemoradiotherapy. Comparison to a normal population cohort's HRQOL shows that the study group experienced a wide array of symptoms affecting their quality of life. ConclusionsThe results of this large, long-term follow-up study show that a majority of patients report a reasonable quality of life 5 years after treatment and that there seems to be continuous improvement over time. Comparison with a normal population cohort, however, underlines the fact that classical side effects remain, even with improved radiation techniques. Additional emphasis on normal-tissue-sparing radiation therapy is warranted, with close attention devoted to HRQOL outcomes.

Swallowing Function before and after Subtotal Glossectomy and Reconstruction with a Rectus Abdominis Musculocutaneous Flap: A Case Report

Purpose: Swallowing function was in a patient with tongue cancer that was evaluated with video fluorography before and after subtotal glossectomy and reconstruction with a rectus abdominis muscuocutaneous flap. Materials and Methods: A 41-year-old man underwent subtotal glossectomy and retained the unilateral posterior mylohyoid and unilateral stylohyoid muscles. The structure of the flap was evaluated postoperatively. To assess swallowing function, video fluorography was performed before surgery, 1 month after surgery and 1 year after surgery. Testing involved 1) ability to hold 10 mL of liquid in the oral cavity, 2) epiglottis turnover, 3) the presence of aspiration, 4) hyoid bone movement, and 5) maximum width of the esophageal entrance. Results: The flap was protuberant postoperatively. The patient was able to hold the test diet in the oral cavity before and after surgery. Epiglottis turnover was good before surgery but insufficient after surgery. Aspiration during swallowing was not observed before or after surgery. At rest, the hyoid bone sagged postoperatively, in comparison with preoperatively. Hyoid bone movement and width of the esophageal entrance decreased after surgery; however, they demonstrated gradual recovery. Conclusions: For good postoperative swallowing function after subtotal glossectomy, it is necessary to perform reconstruction with protuberant flap and to retain the suprahyoid muscles as much as possible.

PS02.144: ESOPHAGOPLASTY WITH FREE JEJUNUM FLAP AFTER COLON-ESOPHAGUS CONDUIT ISCHEMIA

Abstract Background Colon interposition is mainly used as a second line treatment, when the stomach has to be resected for oncological or technical reasons, or when the stomach is deliberately kept intact for benign and congenital diseases in patients with long-life expectancy. Colon provides extended conduit length, reliable blood supply and low incidence of reflux. However, the early and late postoperative ischemic complication rate is 5–15%. Methods Colon ischemia can frequently cause anastomosis complications, which can be safely treated with dilation or surgery. The most serious but rare complication is the acute conduit necrosis. More severe cases of necrosis require conduit take down with proximal esophageal diversion and placement of an enteral feeding tube. An uncommon complication is the colonic stricture due to chronic ischemia, which can be treated with conservative methods such as dilation and stenting. Surgery is indicated since the impaired deglutition can compromise the quality of life. Supercharged or free jejunal interposition is a suitable alternative conduit for esophageal replacement in patients with otherwise limited delayed reconstructive options. Good functional outcomes can be achieved despite the formidable technical challenges in this group of patients. Results In three such cases, we could successfully use a free jejunal flap for reconstruction; the replacement type was different, using substernal, presternal and sternotomy routes. The arterial blood supply was provided by the internal mammary artery. Saphenous graft was used to interconnect to external jugular or innominate vein to reestablish the venous drainage. All three patients survived without further complication. Conclusion Overall, it can be stated that free jejunal graft transplantation can be used to resolve complicated cases that cannot be reconstructed with any other methods and jejunum offers a good swallowing function and quality of life. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

PS01.188: NOVEL ESOPHAGEAL RECONSTRUCTION VIA TRANS-MEDIASTINAL ROUTE FROM POSTERIOR TO ANTERIOR MEDIASTINUM AFTER ESOPHAGECTOMY FOR GASTRECTOMIZED PATIENTS WITH HIGH RISKS

Abstract Background Elderly patients or those who have undergone surgery for head and neck cancer (HNC) have a potential risk of dysphagia, in addition, the latter has a considerable difficulty for surgery for the neck. Intrathoracic anastomosis is preferable to preserve swallowing function and reduce surgical risk, because the cervical procedure can be avoided. However, the stomach cannot be used as a substitute in gastrectomized patients; thus, securing graft blood supply is critical. Nevertheless, microvascular anastomosis cannot easily be added in procedures for intrathoracic posterior mediastinal reconstruction. We therefore designed a novel technique for esophageal reconstruction to enable both intrathoracic anastomosis and microvascular anastomosis simultaneously even in gastrectomized patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness and safety of this technique. Methods Esophagectomy with mediastinal lymphadenectomy is performed through a right thoracotomy in the left decubitus position, and temporary chest closure is done after the esophagus is divided at the upper mediastinum with safe margin. Next, the patient is placed in the left half side-lying position, and the jejunal or ileocolic graft for reconstruction is created after removal of the remnant stomach in the supine position. Then, after the patient's position is changed to the left decubitus one and rethoracotomy is performed, the graft is pulled up through the anterior mediastinum, and is then passed into the right thoracic cavity via a small hole made in the anterior mediastinal pleura. The graft is then finally anastomosed with the remnant esophagus in the upper posterior mediastinum. Thereafter, microvascular anastomosis is performed in the retrosternal space through the skin incision in the supine position. Finally, the continuity of alimentary tract is completed. Results This new reconstruction procedure was performed for 4 patients with no significant postoperative complications, good swallowing function postoperatively, and no retention of food in the graft. There was no in-hospital death. Conclusion This novel trans-mediastinal reconstruction technique is a possible option in terms of enabling intrathoracic anastomosis and addition of microvascular anastomosis for highly selected gastrectomized patients with advanced age or a past history of HNC surgery. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

Novel esophageal reconstruction technique via transmediastinal route from posterior to anterior mediastinum after esophagectomy

BackgroundThe incidence of metachronous esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC) after head and neck cancer (HNC) and in elderly patients has increased. Both elderly ESCC patients and ESCC patients after HNC surgery are at potential risk for dysphagia, and for the latter, surgery in the neck is difficult. An intrathoracic anastomosis that bypasses the cervical procedure is preferable to preserve swallowing function and reduce surgical risk. In gastrectomized patients, because the stomach cannot be used as a substitute, securing graft blood supply is critical, but microvascular anastomosis cannot be easily added in procedures for intrathoracic posterior mediastinal reconstruction. Thus, we have developed a novel technique for esophageal reconstruction in gastrectomized patients who are elderly or who had undergone HNC surgery, enabling concomitant intrathoracic anastomosis and microvascular anastomosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness and safety of this technique. MethodsThe jejunal or ileocolic graft is first pulled up through the anterior mediastinum and is then passed into the right thoracic cavity via a small hole made in the anterior mediastinal pleura. The graft is finally anastomosed with the remnant esophagus in the upper posterior mediastinum. Thereafter, microvascular anastomosis is performed in the retrosternal space. ResultsFour patients underwent this new reconstruction procedure with no significant postoperative complications, good swallowing function postoperatively, and no retention of food in the graft. ConclusionsThis novel transmediastinal reconstruction technique is a possible option for highly selected patients to enable intrathoracic anastomosis and the addition of microvascular anastomosis.

Swallowing Outcomes in Elderly Patients following Microvascular Reconstruction of the Head and Neck.

Objective To describe swallowing outcomes in elderly patients undergoing microvascular reconstruction of the upper aerodigestive tract and identify risk factors for poor postoperative swallowing function. Study Design Case series with chart review. Setting Academic medical center. Subjects and Methods Sixty-six patients aged ≥70 years underwent microvascular reconstruction of the upper aerodigestive tract. The primary outcome measure was the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS); preoperative and postoperative scores were dichotomized to define "good swallowing" and "poor swallowing." Logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors for poor postoperative swallowing function. Results In total, 91% of reconstructions were performed for oncologic defects. The most common defect site was the oral cavity (67%), and the anterolateral thigh (29%) was the most frequently used donor site. At 3-year follow up, 75% of patients had good swallowing function with 95% of patients who achieved good swallowing function doing so within 6 months of surgery. On multivariable analysis, patients with pT4 tumors (odds ratio [OR], 5.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-25.6) and those undergoing at least partial glossectomy (OR, 4.7; 95% CI, 1.1-20.7) were more likely to experience poor swallowing function at 6-month follow-up. Conclusion Approximately half of elderly patients achieve good swallowing function within 6 months following microvascular reconstruction of the upper aerodigestive tract. Elderly patients with pT4 tumors and those requiring glossectomy are at highest risk for poor swallowing outcomes. These data can be used to inform preoperative patient counseling and design interventions aimed at improving swallowing function in those at high risk for poor outcomes.

Morbidity and Functional Outcomes following Free Jejunal Flap Reconstruction for Head and Neck Cancer

Aim: To evaluate the morbidity and fundamental functional outcomes (swallow and speech) after free jejunal flap (FJF) reconstruction following total pharyngolaryngo-esophagectomy (PLE) in China. Methods: 18 patients with FJF reconstruction after total PLE were retrospectively reviewed. Scheduled barium swallow test was performed 7-10 days postoperatively. Rehabilitation of swallowing and speech for patients was assessed by the Performance Status Scale for Head and Neck Cancer Patients. Results: 8 patients died of tumor recurrence and 2 patients died of other reasons (cerebrovascular disease and respiratory disease, respectively). The 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year survival rates were 70.5, 49.4, and 33.8%, respectively. 83.3% of all patients could tolerate soft chewable foods, such as cooked vegetables, fish, hamburger, and small pieces of meat. 2 patients with early stenosis at upper anastomotic sites were with good swallowing function; while 2 patients with early stenosis at lower anastomotic sites were found to have difficulty in oral diet. 2 (11.1%) patients with larynx-preserving pharyngo-esophagectomy showed no compromise in speech. Only 2 (11.1%) patients underwent primary tracheoesophageal puncture for inserting an indwelling voice prosthesis for speech, and both patients achieved functional tracheoesophageal speech. The remaining 14 (77.8%) patients with total PLE did not resume functional speech. Conclusion: Postoperative barium swallow examination is helpful to predict long-term anastomotic stenosis. Good functional swallow rehabilitation is achieved following FJF reconstruction after total PLE or a larynx-preserving procedure. However, the speech outcomes are not satisfactory. It raises the demand of enhancement of functional recovery so that quality of life can be improved for these patients in China.

Rotational thyrotracheopexy after cricoidectomy for low‐grade laryngeal chrondrosarcoma

The complex laryngeal functions are fundamentally defined by the cricoid cartilage. Thus, lesions requiring subtotal or total resection of the cricoid cartilage commonly warrant total laryngectomy. However, from an oncological perspective, the resection of the cricoid cartilage would be an optimal solution in these cases. The poor functional results of the few reported cases of total and subtotal cricoidectomy with different reconstruction techniques confirm the need for new approaches to reconstruct the infrastructure of the larynx post cricoidectomy. Retrospective case series review. Four consecutive patients with low-grade chondrosarcoma were treated by cricoidectomy with rotational thyrotracheopexy reconstruction to enable the functional creation of a complete cartilaginous ring that can substitute the functions of the cricoid cartilage. The glottic structures were stabilized with endoscopic arytenoid abduction lateropexy. Patients were evaluated with objective and subjective function tests. Tumor-free margins were proven; patients were successfully decannulated within 3 weeks. Voice outcomes were adequate for social conversation in all cases. Oral feeding was possible in three patients. Total and subtotal cricoidectomy can be a surgical option to avoid total laryngectomy in cases of large chondrosarcomas destroying the cricoid cartilage. The thyrotracheopexy rotational advancement technique enables the effective reconstruction of the structural deficit of the resected cricoid cartilage in cases of total and subtotal cricoidectomy. An adequate airway for breathing, swallowing, and voice production can be reconstructed with good oncological control. In cases where the pharynx is not involved, good swallowing function can also be achieved. 4. Laryngoscope, 127:1109-1115, 2017.

15-year Personal Experience of Esophageal Reconstruction by Left Colic Arterydependent Colic Graft for Caustic Stricture: Surgical Technique and Postoperative Results

INTRODUCTION Stricture formation of oesophagus is inevitable in some cases of caustic ingestion. Oesophageal reconstruction using colon aims to restore both gut continuity and swallowing function. The aim of this retrospective study is to report a 15-year personal experience of surgical management of esophageal caustic stricture by using substernal left colic interposition. MATERIALS AND METHODS From 1999 to 2014, 105 patients with esophageal caustic stenosis were managed surgically. There were 90 women and 15 men. Patients aged from 15 to 70 years. Emergency esophago-gastrectomy was performed in 4 patients. Early gastric stenosis was treated before reconstructive surgery by gastro-jejunostomy in 12 patients. Nutritional disorders were corrected before surgery .The thoracic inlet was enlarged in36 patients. The functional results were evaluated in all patients. RESULTS Postoperative death occurred in 3 patients . The complication rate was 26.6%. The transplant necrosis was occurred in 2 patients .Cervical anastomotic leakage occurred in 15 patients .Early reoperation was performed in 4 patients. Cervical anastomosis stricture occurred in 8 patients. The redundancy was occurred in 2 patients .The swallowing function was considered good in 94 patients ( 89.5%) . Conclusion The early endoscopic evaluation provides accurate diagnosis and permit to define an appropriate therapeutic strategy . The goal of esophageal reconstructive surgery is to restore digestive continuity and good swallowing function .The left colon graft based on left colic vessels and interposed by substernal route is the technique of choice to reconstruct the scarred esophagus with good results. Key words esophageal stricture, left colon graft , results