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

Background: Preserving laryngeal function and reconstructing the hypopharynx in advanced hypopharyngeal cancer pose significant challenges for head and neck surgeons.

Methods: A 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.

Results: Following 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.

Conclusion: Our reconstruction strategy proves effective in preserving laryngeal function among patients with advanced hypopharyngeal cancer.