Comparison of radial forearm free flap and gastric pull‐up in pharyngo‐esophageal reconstruction

Abstract

Despite multiple reconstructive approaches proposed over the past several decades, there remains no consensus on the optimal method of reconstructing pharyngo‐esophageal defects. In this paper, we compare our experience with tubed radial forearm free flap (RFF) and gastric pull‐up (GP).

Patients who underwent GP had lower rates of stricture formation, regardless of preoperative radiation status.

Patients who underwent preoperative radiation had higher rates of stricture and fistula formation.

Non‐radiated patients also had higher rates of return to oral diet.

Gastric pull‐up offers lower rates of stricture and fistula formation, as well as high rates of return to oral diet. Patients who underwent preoperative radiation suffered higher rates of stricture and fistula regardless of reconstructive method.

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