Tracheal wall for the reconstruction of extended hemilaryngectomy in the rabbit model

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate reconstruction of the surgical wound of extended hemilaryngectomy using the tracheal wall. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective, nonrandomized experimental study in a rabbit model in which cricothyroid hemilaryngectomy was performed in 10 rabbits. The proximal trachea was tailored to cover the surgical wound and sutured to it. The ipsilateral lobe of the thyroid gland and the medial thyroid vascular pedicle were conserved so as to assure vascular supply to the tracheal flap. After 4 weeks the animals were sacrificed and pathology analysis conducted. RESULTS: Eight of the 10 rabbits survived without respiratory or deglutitory alterations. Pathologic analysis showed well-healed suture lines together with normal mucosa and cartilage rings in the tracheal flap. CONCLUSIONS: The tracheal wall appears to be the ideal donor tissue for repair of the larynx. SIGNIFICANCE: This simple, 1-session surgical procedure demonstrates an effective reconstruction of an extended hemilaryngectomy wound.