Article Text
Abstract
Reconstruction of neopharynx after total laryngectomy is a challenging task. Various locoregional flaps like pectoralis major myocutaneos/ latismus dorsi flaps and free flaps have their own limitations and advantages. To overcome this, we used facial artery-based cutaneous island flap (melo-labial flap) for reconstruction of the neopharynx following total laryngectomy (DK Gupta technique). This flap is thin, pliable, without any gravitational pull and without any risk of anastomosis failure and hence has advantage of both locoregional and free flaps and eliminates the limitations of both. It is simple, reproducible and reliable reconstructive option for neopharynx. We present a case report, review of literature and this novel technique for an excellent outcome and recommend to use it as the new workhorse of neopharyngeal reconstruction.
- cancer intervention
- head and neck cancer
- head and neck durgery
- plastic and reconstructive surgery
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Footnotes
Contributors DKG: idea of flap, design of flap, conduct of surgery, writing the manuscript, review of literature. RC: ablative surgeon, review of literature. SKS: idea of publication in BMJ and proof reading. SP: collection of data including picture and obtaining consent of the patient.
Funding The authors have not declared a specific grant for this research from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
Competing interests None declared.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed.
Patient consent for publication Obtained.