Pedicled flaps reconstruction of hypopharynx and laryngeal defects: Successful preservation of laryngeal function in patients with advanced hypopharyngeal cancer

BackgroundPreserving laryngeal function and reconstructing the hypopharynx in advanced hypopharyngeal cancer pose significant challenges for head and neck surgeons.MethodsA 48-year-old male patient was diagnosed with advanced hypopharyngeal cancer originating from the left pyriform sinus. The tumor extended into the hypopharynx, left vocal cord, ventricular fold, partial aryepiglottic fold, and a segment of the cervical esophagus. A curative tumor resection was performed, and a well-thought-out strategy was employed for hypopharyngeal repair and laryngeal reconstruction.ResultsFollowing the surgery, the patient demonstrated exceptional flap survival, and the tracheostomy tube was removed at the 6-month mark. No surgery-related complications were observed, and both swallowing and vocal functions exhibited a robust recovery.ConclusionOur reconstruction strategy proves effective in preserving laryngeal function among patients with advanced hypopharyngeal cancer.