Combined hyoid bone flap in laryngeal reconstruction after extensive partial laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer

Abstract

Patients undergoing extensive partial laryngectomy require laryngeal reconstruction to restore function. Several techniques have been described, but they are associated with complications such as laryngeal stenosis. The aim of this study was to describe a new technique of combined hyoid bone and thyrohyoid membrane flap in laryngeal reconstruction after tumor resection, and to evaluate outcome. Eight patients requiring an extensive vertical or frontal partial laryngectomy for cancer were enrolled. Following radical tumor resection, laryngeal reconstruction was performed using the hyoid bone with a thyrohyoid membrane flap. Postoperative recovery time, complications, vocal quality, and cancer outcome were evaluated. The procedure was successful in all patients. There were no deaths, and no reports of postoperative dyspnea or dysphagia. Decannulation was performed in all patients after a median duration of 3 days (range 2-5 days). Swallowing and respiratory function were satisfactory and laryngeal stenosis did not occur during the mean follow-up period of 30.5 months. One patient had a local recurrence and required a salvage operation. A combined hyoid bone and thyrohyoid membrane flap is a reliable and relatively safe procedure that can be successfully performed for laryngeal reconstruction after extensive vertical or frontal partial laryngectomy.