Technique for Glottic Reconstruction following Vertical Partial Laryngectomy: A Preliminary Report

Abstract

In order to obtain a good phonatory function after glottic reconstruction following vertical partial laryngectomy, the following basic conditions should be satisfied: (1) adequate glottic closure should occur during phonation; (2) the top of the bulge constructed on the affected side should be located at the level of the vocal cord in order to facilitate vocal cord vibration and to prevent false cord vibration; and (3) the surface of the bulge should be smooth. A technique for glottic reconstruction which appears to meet these conditions is described. The sternohyoid muscle is dissected at the level 5 cm below the vocal cord, and the upper portion is used as a single pedicled flap. The muscle flap is bent approximately 90° at the level of the upper border of the cricoid cartilage and inserted into the intralaryngeal wound so as to make a large bulge. The muscle flap is covered by hypopharyngeal mucosa or a free graft of oral mucosa.