Pharyngeal Tube Flap and Palatoglossal Rotation Flap in Subtotal Soft Palate Reconstruction

Abstract

Reconstruction of the soft plate after oncologic resection is complex owing to the palate’s complex role in speech and swallow. This challenge becomes more complex as defects increase in size. Current management of soft plate reconstruction includes obturation as well as local or microvascular flaps. These methods, though, are limited by poor function and complexity. In regard to large subtotal central soft palate defects, we expand on previous descriptions of a tubed posterior pharyngeal constrictor flap to include a palatoglossal rotational flap that is facile and hardy and has a decreased recovery time. Furthermore, we present 2 representative cases, including 1 with previous radiation, in which our technique was utilized with successful closure of the defect and without subsequent breakdown.