Severe Pharyngeal Stenosis Treated with Inferiorly Based Sternocleidomastoid Myocutaneous Flap

Abstract

Severe pharyngeal stenosis is a debilitating condition associated with apnea and dysphagia. Treatment options include local flaps and free mucosal grafts. We present 2 cases of severe stenosis, apparently from adenotonsillectomy, that failed more conservative repairs. Both were treated successfully with a sternocleidomastoid myocutaneous flap rotated in through a lateral pharyngotomy. No further treatment has been required. Technical considerations and operative planning are discussed.