• 대한두경부종양학회지
• /
• 제23권1호
• /
• pp.26-31
• /
• 2007

Background and Objectives：Microvascular free flap reconstruction has been revolutionized in last two decades, and became a standard option in the reconstruction of head and neck defects. We intended to review our experiences of 51 microvascular free flap for head and neck defects during 5-year period and to analyze the types of flaps according to primary sites, success and complication rates. Subjects and Methods：From Oct. 2001 through Dec. 2005, fifty one free flap reconstructions were performed in forty nine patients at ENT department of Soonchunhyang university bucheon hospital. Primary sites, pathology, T-stage, operative time, time interval of oral feeding, and various reconstructive factors such as recipient and donor vessels, free flap related complications, failure rates and salvage rates were retrospectively analyzed. The relation between complication rates and preoperative risk factors were statistically analyzed. Results：Methods of reconstruction were radial forearm free flap(RFFF)(n=28, 54.9%), anterolateral thigh free flaps(n=9, ALTFF)(17.6%), rectus abdominis free flap(n=7, RAFF)(13.7%), jejunal free flap(n=5, JFF)(9.8%), and miscellanous(n=2, 4.0%) in order. In free flap related complications, failure of free flap occurred in seven cases(13.7%) and pharyngocutaneous fistula occurred in five cases(9.8%) among fifty one free flaps. The overall success rate of free flaps was 86.3%. Salvage of free flaps was possible only one among eight cases(12.5%). In positive preoperative risk factor groups, failure of free flap was higher than in negative risk factor group. However, it was not statistically significant. Conclusion：We confirmed that free flap reconstructions are highly versatile and reliable options for use in the reconstruction of various soft tissue defects of the head and neck. Free flaps have gained great popularity given its versatility, ability for a two-team approach, and minimal donor site morbidity. However, complications related to microvascular surgery may be overcome by increased surgical experience and by intensive flap monitoring in early postoperative period.

• 대한두경부종양학회지
• /
• 제33권2호
• /
• pp.89-93
• /
• 2017

Background. Ever since the first report of deltopectoral flap in pharyngo-esophageal reconstruction in 1965, various methods of flap reconstruction have been introduced, allowing surgical eradication of tumors that were once thought to be inoperable. Despite these advancement, many literatures emphasize distant metastasis and second primary malignancies as the most important factors that contribute to the low 5-year survival rate of the patients. Specific consensus about defining second primary cancer is still debatable, due to small number of reports regarding second primary tumors arising in flaps used for reconstruction of defects in the head and neck region. Case. We report a case of a 72-year-old male patient who, under the diagnosis of hypopharyngeal cancer, underwent total laryngectomy with partial pharyngectomy, extended right radical neck dissection with extended left lateral neck dissection, right hemithyroidectomy and radial forearm free flap reconstruction on June 16, 2003. After 37 cycles of radiation therapy, the patient exhibited no sign of recurrence. The patient revisited our department on June 14, 2016 with chief complaint of dysphagia that started two months before the visit. Radiologic studies and histology revealed squamous cell carcinoma in neopharynx, one that had been reconstructed with forearm free flap. Conclusion. Until now, only a handful of reports regarding patients with second primary cancer in reconstructed flaps have been described. Despite its rarity, diagnostic criteria for second primary cancer should always kept in consideration for patients with recurred tumor.

• Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• /
• 제35권2호
• /
• pp.100-106
• /
• 2013

There are many challenges for reconstruction after intraoral tumor resection. Especially, palatomaxillary reconstruction has two primary goals: closure of the oronasal communication and re-creation of proper myomucosal function. Prosthodontic treatment using obturator and several surgical procedures are selected depending on the size and site of the defect, the difficulty of operative procedure, operation time and donor site problem. Above all, it is considered that radial forearm free flap is the first choice for palatal reconstruction. Our department introduces a novel method using tunnelized-facial artery myomucosal island flap for palatomaxillary defect reconstruction, which can successfully reduce donor-site morbidity, and duration of surgery and hospitalization.

• 대한두개안면성형외과학회지
• /
• 제21권5호
• /
• pp.269-275
• /
• 2020

Background: The advance in microsurgical technique has facilitated a proper approach for reconstruction of extensive head and neck defects. For the success of free tissue reconstruction, selection of the recipient vessel is one of the most important factors. However, the vascular anatomy of this region is very complex, and a clear guideline about this subject is still lacking. In this study, we present our 30 years of experiences of free tissue reconstruction for head and neck defects. Methods: In this retrospective study, we analyzed a total of 138 flaps in 127 patients who underwent head and neck reconstruction using free tissue transfer following tumor resection between October 1986 to August 2019. Patients who underwent facial palsy reconstruction were excluded. Medical records including patient's demographics, detailed operation notes, follow-up records, and photographs were collected and analyzed. Results: Among a total of 127 patients, 10 patients underwent a secondary operation due to cancer recurrence. The most commonly used type of flap was radial forearm flap (n=107), followed by the anterolateral thigh flap (n=18) and fibula flap (n=10). With regard to recipient vessels, superior thyroid artery was most commonly used in arterial anastomosis (58.7%), and internal jugular vein (51.3%) was the first choice for venous anastomosis. The flap survival rate was 100%. Four cases of venous thrombosis were resolved with thrombectomy and re-anastomosis. Conclusion: Superior thyroid artery and internal jugular vein were reliable choices as recipient vessels. Proper recipient vessel selection could improve the result of head and neck reconstruction.

• Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• /
• 제33권6호
• /
• pp.478-482
• /
• 2011

Purpose: Free flap reconstruction is performed on defects including benign and malignant tumors as well as trauma in the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery, but there are few reports of free flap reconstruction cases for oral cancer in patients in Korea. Methods: This study was designed to retrospectively analyze surgical outcomes and complications of 164 free-flap reconstructions performed at the Oral Oncology Clinic, National Cancer Center, during 2002~2011. A total of 164 free flaps were performed for reconstruction of oral and maxillofacial defects which were caused by oral cancer and osteoradionecrosis in 155 patients. Results: The present study had 162 successful cases and 2 failed cases for a total of 164 cases. The study had a success rate of 98.8% for free-flap reconstructions. Flap donor sites included radial forearm free flap (n=93), fibula osteocutaneous free flap (n=25), anterolateral thigh flap (n=18), latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap (n=16) and other locations (n=12). Postoperative medical complications were generally pneumonia and delirium. Postoperative local complications occurred including partial flap necrosis, delayed wound healing of the donor site, infection of the recipient site and salivary fistula. The incidence of postoperative complications and patient-related characteristics including age, sex, smoking, history of radiotherapy, hypertension (HTN) and diabetes Mellitus (DM) were retrospectively analyzed. Patient age ($P$=0.003) and DM ($P$=0.000) and HTN ($P$=0.021) were significant risk factors for complications overall. Conclusion: The present study had no mortality and confirms that free-flap reconstructions are extremely reliable in achieving successful results.

• 대한두개안면성형외과학회지
• /
• 제20권1호
• /
• pp.37-43
• /
• 2019

Background: Tongue reconstruction is challenging with the unique function and anatomy. Goals for reconstruction differ depending on the extent of reconstruction. Thin and pliable flaps are useful for tongue tip reconstruction, for appearance and mobility. This study reports lateral arm free flap (LAFF) as a safe and optimal option for hemi-tongue reconstruction, especially for tongue tip after hemiglossectomy. Methods: Thirteen LAFFs were performed for hemi-tongue reconstruction after hemiglossectomy from 1995 to 2018. Of the 13 patients, seven were male and six were female, age varying from 24 to 64 years. Results: All flaps healed uneventfully without complications. Donor sites were closed primarily. The recipient vessels for microvascular anastomosis were mainly superior thyroidal artery, external jugular vein. All patients returned to normal diet, with no complaints regarding reconstructed tongue and donor site. Conclusion: The LAFF is hairless, thin (especially with lateral epicondyle approach), and potentially sensate. They are advantageous features for tongue tip and hemi-tongue reconstruction. Donor site sacrifices the inessential posterior radial collateral artery, and the scar is hidden under short sleeve shirts. We believe that LAFF can be considered as the first choice flap for hemitongue reconstruction, over radial forearm free flaps.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
• /
• 제33권5호
• /
• pp.557-562
• /
• 2006

Purpose: Advanced carcinoma of the tongue is a devastating disease which may cause severe speech or swallowing dysfunction. But, none to date has provided all of the complex functions of the tongue. The purpose of this study is to review our experiences with individuals who underwent glossectomy followed by reconstruction using free tissue transfer. Methods: Between February 1998 and February 2005, twenty-four patients underwent glossectomy followed by free tissue transfer reconstruction. The defects of tongue caused by partial or subtotal glossectomy were reconstructed by means of radial forearm or lateral thigh free flap with nerve innervation. Especially for the patients who underwent total glossectomy, we reconstructed deglutition muscles anatomically with nerve reinnervation, a procedure that allows the grafted muscle to maintain good tongue bulk without obvious atrophy. Results: Patients were reviewed to determine their functional outcome as it related to speech, deglutition, and aspiration. All patients achieved oral intake of a soft diet and acceptable speech. Conclusion: Although reconstruction following glossectomy using free tissue transfer is not ideal, this procedure is safe and reliable, and provides predictable results. A future challenge is the development of a surgical procedure for reconstruction of a tongue that maintains mobility and sensation using neurotized flaps.

• 대한기관식도과학회지
• /
• 제9권1호
• /
• pp.30-38
• /
• 2003

Cancers of the cervical esophagus occur uncommonly, but treatment is remaining a challenging problem and surgery demands special knowledge of abdominal, thoracic, and neck surgery. The primary risk factor is chronic heartburn, leading to a sequence of esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, reflux esophagitis and etc. Among the various treatment modalities, Surgery is still a mainstay of treatment. The main aim of surgery is not only oncologically adequate resection but also preservation or restoration of physiologic functions, such as deglutition and phonation. Surgical treatment of cervical esophageal cancer is influenced by special problems arising from tumor factors, patient factors and surgeon factors. Complete clearance of loco-regional disease and prevention of postoperative complications are of particular importance for the improvement of long-term survival in patients with these cancers. So the cervical and thoracic extension of these tumors usually required an extensive lymphadenectomy with primary resection. Radical resection of the primary site almostly include sacrifice of the larynx, but the voice could be rehabilitated with various methods, such as tracheoesophageal prosthesis or tracheoesophageal shunts, etc. Restoration of the esophageal conduit can be performed using gastric or colon interposition, radial forearm free flap or jejunum free flap, etc. Recently, the advances of radiation therapy and chemotherapy will enable less extended resections with greater rates of laryngeal preservation. At initial presentation, up to 50％ to 70％ of patients will have advanced locoregional or distant disease with virtually no chance for cure. Patients with advanced but potentially resectable esophageal cancer are generally treated by surgery with some form of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or both, with 5-year survivals in the 20％ to 30％ range. So the significant adverse factors affecting survival should be taken into account to select the candidates for surgery.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
• /
• 제49권5호
• /
• pp.617-632
• /
• 2022

Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) and voice prosthesis insertion following laryngectomy may fail to form an adequate seal. When spontaneous closure of the fistula tract does not occur after conservative measures, surgical closure is required. The purpose of this study was to summarize the available evidence on surgical methods for TEP site closure. A comprehensive search across PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Cochrane was performed to identify studies describing surgical techniques, outcomes, and complications for TEP closure. We evaluated the rate of unsuccessful TEP closure after surgical management. A meta-analysis with a random-effect method was performed. Thirty-four studies reporting on 144 patients satisfied inclusion criteria. The overall incidence of an unsuccessful TEP surgical closure was 6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1-13%). Subgroup analysis showed an unsuccessful TEP closure rate for silicone button of 8% (95% CI < 1-43%), 7% (95% CI < 1-34%) for dermal graft interposition, < 1% (95% CI < 1-37%) for radial forearm free flap, < 1% (95% CI < 1-52%) for ligation of the fistula, 17% (95% CI < 1-64%) for interposition of a deltopectoral flap, 9% (95% CI < 1-28%) for primary closure, and 2% (95% CI < 1-20%) for interposition of a sternocleidomastoid muscle flap. Critical assessment of the reconstructive modality should take into consideration previous history of surgery or radiotherapy. Nonirradiated fields and small defects may benefit from fistula excision and tracheal and esophageal multilayer closure. In cases of previous radiotherapy, local flaps or free tissue transfer yield high successful TEP closure rates. Depending on the defect size, sternocleidomastoid muscle flap or fasciocutaneous free flaps are optimal alternatives.

• Archives of Reconstructive Microsurgery
• /
• 제7권1호
• /
• pp.47-53
• /
• 1998

Despite of technical advances in surgery & other therapeutic modalities five-year survival rates in patients with carcinoma of hypopharynx have remained low. Many techniques have been used to create a structure capable of allowing the passage of food and fluids in an attempt to maintain the anatomy and physiology of the upper digestive system. The development of microsurgical techniques and the concept of mucocutaneous unit has brought about important changes in the reconstruction of cervical esophagus following tumor resection. The one-stage procedure using microvascular anastomosis of free jejunal graft provides physiologic reconstruction of cervical esophagus and has a low morbidity rate as well as a short recuperation time. With free jejunal graft, there is marked improvement in the quality of life and numerous advantages over the previous methods of reconstruction. Reconstruction of esophageal defect after resection of carcinomas of the hypopharynx, and cervical esophagus has traditionally been carried out with deltopectoral, or musculocutaneous skin-lined flaps. A second approach is to reconstruct the defect with the colon or stomach. A more ideal mettled is to repair these defects with mucosa-lined flaps. The authors experienced 35 cases of reconstruction of cervical esophagus after resection of carcinoma of the hypopharynx with free jejunal autograft and one case of secondary repair with radial forearm free flap after failure of initial free Jejunal autograft. Postoperative results were satisfactory in most patients and two patients expired in 8 days postoperatively because of carotid blow out by chronic inflammation.