Fascia Temporalis Free Flap for Cricotracheal Reconstruction: A Novel Approach.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The aim of tracheal reconstruction is to provide an airtight and noncollapsible airway covered with a suitable epithelial lining. To date, no ideal treatment is available for large tracheal defects. METHODS: We report 4 patients who underwent one-stage reconstruction for a cricotracheal stenosis with a free temporoparietal fascia flap and costal cartilage grafts. RESULTS: Closure of tracheostoma was achieved for all patients. The main advantage of this flap compared with the free radial forearm flap is that it supplies a more suitable lining allowing the reepithelialization process with respiratory epithelium. CONCLUSIONS: This one-stage procedure provides a reliable construct to substitute for large tracheal defects, even in areas previously exposed to an operation or radiotherapy.