Application of Neck Lift Technique for Corrections of Concave Deformity and Scar Contracture After Tracheal Fenestration

Following a tracheostomy or tracheal fenestration procedure, neck concave deformity, and contracture after spontaneous closure are common problems. Since the neck is an exposed part of the body, its concave deformity can cause cosmetic problems and functional problems such as difficulty in neck extension and swallowing due to contracture. We report the case of a 63-year-old man who underwent tracheal fenestration for worsening respiratory status due to sepsis after aspiration pneumonia. After spontaneous closure of the tracheal fenestration, the patient developed a deformity of the neck, impaired neck extension, and dysphagia due to contracture. In this case, the submental sagging skin was used as a subcutaneous pedicle flap to correct the problem, and the result was both functionally and cosmetically satisfactory. We found that the submandibular skin could be used as a random pattern flap for reconstruction of the lower half of the neck. Therefore, this procedure can be an effective method for reconstruction around the tracheal stoma in the future.