Fascia Temporalis Free Flap for Cricotracheal Reconstruction: a Novel Approach.

Fascia Temporalis Free Flap for Cricotracheal Reconstruction: a Novel Approach.

Ann Thorac Surg. 2017 Jun 01;:

Authors: Baujat B, Struk S, Lesnik M, de Crouy Chanel O, Barbut J, Lefevre M, Périé S, Lacau St Guily J

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The aim of tracheal reconstruction is to provide an airtight and noncollapsible airway covered with a suitable epithelial lining. To date, no ideal treatment is available for large tracheal defects.
METHODS: We report 4 patients who underwent one-stage reconstruction for a cricotracheal stenosis with a free temporoparietal fascia flap and costal cartilage grafts.
RESULTS: Closure of tracheostoma was achieved for all patients. The main advantage of this flap compared with the free radial forearm flap is that it supplies a more suitable lining allowing the reepithelialization process with respiratory epithelium.
CONCLUSIONS: This one-stage procedure provides a reliable construct to substitute for large tracheal defects, even in areas previously exposed to an operation or radiotherapy.

PMID: 28577852 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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