Deltopectral Flap for One-Stage Reconstruction of Pharyngocutaneous Fistulae Following Total Laryngectomy

Abstract

Postoperative pharyngocutaneous fistulae are troublesome complications after total laryngectomy. To manage this complication, we devised an operative method consisting of a one-stage repair using a deltopectal flap. With this technique we can immediately cover both skin and pharyngeal defects. We have applied this method to 5 patients all of whom have successfully recovered their swallowing function.