Hypopharyngeal mucosal flap reconstruction in endoscopic supraglottic laryngectomy

PURPOSE: Preservation of voice, swallowing and airway is mandatory in early to moderately advanced supraglottic cancers. Here, we propose an endoscopic laryngoplasty to improve swallowing recovery in patients treated by extended CO₂ laser supraglottic laryngectomy. METHODS: We describe a new mucosal flap reconstruction technique in a cohort of seven laryngeal cancer patients with posterior extension, treated by CO₂ laser resection. Clinical endoscopic and videofluoroscopy postoperative exams were performed, and swallow function was tested by the MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) questionnaire. RESULTS: No early complications were observed. Absence of aspiration after two days in all cases was confirmed, and MDADI mean value result was 98. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest the harvest of a hypopharyngeal mucosal flap in all patients who require a laryngeal supraglottic posterior resection, with or without arytenoidectomy.