Outcomes following pharyngolaryngectomy reconstruction with free tissue transfer — 13-year single unit experience

Background: Pharyngolaryngectomy is a common procedure for circumferential hypopharyngeal and advanced laryngeal neoplasms. Reconstruction of such a defect is challenging but essential to improve function and the quality of life. Different reconstruction methods have been described which includes regional, pedicled or free flaps. Clinical outcomes following reconstruction are variable and depend on different factors e.g. previous surgical or nonsurgical treatment, method of reconstruction, patient motivation, access to rehabilitation, etc. Objective: Outcomes following reconstruction of circumferential defects of the hypopharynx in a single unit. Methods: The study includes all patients treated at the Head and Neck Unit who underwent a pharyngolaryngectomy and reconstruction with different types of free tissue transfers between 2002 and 2015. Outcomes assessed will be swallowing, pharyngocutaneous fistulas, strictures, donor site morbidity, overall survival and disease free survival. Findings and Conclusions: We have collected data for 45 eligible patients and we are in the process of compiling our findings and conclusions. This study would be one of the largest series of such reconstructions in the United Kingdom-based population. Our study also reflects on the change of trend in the methods of reconstruction over the years.