Hypopharyngeal reconstruction with the radial forearm flap

Acta Chir Belg. 1990 May-Jun;90(3):132-5.

Abstract

The radial forearm flap is a well-vascularized fasciocutaneous free flap, transferred on the radial artery and vein. In cases of partial hypopharyngectomy, tracheo-esophageal fistulas and hypopharyngeal stenosis it may be difficult to accommodate the bulk of a myocutaneous flap without interfering with pharyngeal function. The thin, pliable nature of the forearm skin is ideally suited to replace hypopharyngeal mucosa. The result is a thin-walled pharynx.

MeSH terms

  • Constriction, Pathologic / surgery
  • Forearm / surgery
  • Humans
  • Hypopharynx / surgery*
  • Pharyngeal Diseases / surgery
  • Pharyngectomy / methods*
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Tracheoesophageal Fistula / surgery