Analysis of recurrence and survival after hypopharyngeal ablative surgery with radial forearm free flap reconstruction.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: To address the controversial acceptable distal resection margin for the surgical management of patients with hypopharyngeal cancer. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective review of the records of 28 consecutive patients who underwent pharyngoesophagectomy and reconstruction with radial forearm free flaps between 1996 to 2001. METHODS: The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival and recurrence-free time. RESULTS: The minimum follow-up time was 2 years, and there were 14 (50%) patients who had recurrences. Analysis revealed that only one (3%) patient experienced a recurrence at the inferior resection margin, the junction of the free flap reconstruction, and the cervical esophagus. Estimated 4 year survival was 48.5%. CONCLUSIONS: Total laryngopharyngectomy and partial esophagectomy with radial forearm free flap reconstructions in appropriately selected patients with hypopharyngeal cancer does not compromise local recurrence rates at the distal esophageal margin.

Duke Scholars

Author Ramon Mitra Esclamado Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences