Transoral robotic total laryngopharyngectomy and free jejunal flap reconstruction for hypopharyngeal cancer

Abstract Background To report on the feasibility of total laryngopharyngectomy and free jejunal flap transfer for patient with hypopharyngeal cancer via the transoral robotic surgery (TORS) approach. Material and methods A patient with hypopharyngeal cancer involving the post-cricoid region is used for demonstration of the TORS total laryngopharyngectomy and free jejunal flap reconstruction. Results The procedure starts with a cruciate incision for terminal tracheostomy. The trachea and cervical esophagus is exposed and transected, making sure that the resection margins are adequate. This is followed by the transoral dissection using the robotic surgical system. The laryngopharyngectomy specimen is delivered and the free jejunal flap is replaced transorally. Jejuno-oesophageal suturing and the microvascular anastomosis are performed through the tracheostomy wound. The remaining pharyngo-jejunal anastomosis is performed transorally via the TORS approach. Conclusion TORS total laryngopharyngectomy and free jejunal flap reconstruction is feasible and provides and alternative option to the traditional transcervical approach.