The Role of the Anterolateral Thigh Flap for Pharyngoesophageal Reconstruction

Abstract

Prior to the introduction of free tissue transfer, pharyngoesophageal reconstruction represented one of the most challenging reconstructive dilemmas for the head and neck surgeon. Throughout the evolution of head and neck surgery, a variety of reconstructive techniques has been introduced to meet this challenge. Historically, many of the early techniques were fraught with complications including flap necrosis, wound breakdown, mediastinal infection, and great vessel erosion. Over the years, there has been a slow but steady evolution of the techniques used for the reconstruction of pharyngoesophageal defects, providing patients with an improved outcome.