Cervical esophagus reconstruction by adapted microsurgical radial forearm autologous graft

Abstract

The treatment of localized oncological process requires a reconstructive intervention in the vast majority of cases. Thus, the problem of reconstructive plastic material is acute. There is no standard material for reconstruction, due to the variability of defects in length, composition and localization of the tumor process. Both cover tissues and fragments of the gastrointestinal tract can be used as the autologous graft. The presented clinical case describes the esophageal reconstruction with the radial forearm flap. The radial flap is easy to cut out, survives well, and its use excludes the presence of complications from the donor area, in comparison with the techniques of using fragments of the gastrointestinal tract. The ability to perform simultaneous tumor removal and reconstruction allows for full restoration of vital functions – eating, breathing, speech, achievement of good aesthetic and functional results, including long-term ones, and a satisfactory quality of life.

Keywords

• esophageal reconstruction
• radial flap