Novel application of a thyroid gland flap in repairing a mucosal defect to prevent pharyngocutaneous fistula following total laryngectomy: a case report

Resection of pharyngeal or laryngeal tumors often results in mucosal defects. Which may lead to excessive suture line tension and pharyngocutaneous fistula. The incidence of pharyngocutaneous fistula formation after total laryngectomy is relatively common. In order to reduce the tension of the suture line, a variety of flaps were introduced to repair the defect. Every flap has some defects. For example, the free skin flap may require microvascular anastomosis technology and relatively increase the operation time. The pectoralis major or latissimus dorsi skin flap needs to increase the incision outside the neck region. Therefore, it is very important to design the optimal personalized repair method for specific patients. In this case, in order to minimize the trauma and quickly complete defect repairing, we introduced an innovative application of a pedicled regional flap. To the best of our knowledge, the application of thyroid gland flap (TGF) in this case has not been reported. Meanwhile, it also provides a new option for cervical defect repairing.