Vascularized Fascia as a Transferable Bed for Experimental Laryngeal Reconstruction

Lee, Hyung Seok; Park, Chul Won; Choi, Suk Joo; Muhn, Dong Suk; Ahn, Kyung Sung

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Free fascia flaps provide neovascularity without adding bulk and are particularly suited to serve in microvascular transfers to recipient beds carrying an epithelial lining. As such, free fascia flaps may be useful in providing a mucosal lining at the interior side of the reconstructed larynx. This study examines the reliability of a composite reconstruction method using a combined vascular flap for the laryngeal defects.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A vascularized fascial flap which was consistently present and easy to isolate was developed in dogs. Laryngeal defects were reconstructed with a combined vascular flap consisting of lateral thoracic fascia, which is also used as a transferable vascular be). A buccal mucosa graft was fixed on this bed to provide as an internal lining. An autogenous auricular cartilage graft, circumferentially wrapped in vascular connective tissue, was used as an external support.
RESULTS
There were no respiratory distress, limitation of activity, and laryngeal stenosis after the laryngeal reconstruction.
CONCLUSION
We have maintained the positive aspects as well as improved the negative aspects of the experiment and devised a new series of experiments which are now in progress. The lateral thoracic fascia is used as a transferable bed with an autogenous cartilage for support. They may be a useful tool for laryngotracheal reconstruction.