[Plastic-surgical therapy of extensive radiogenic recurrence of pharyngo-esophagostoma].

Reconstruction of extended post-irradiation pharyngo-esophagostomy is still a formidable challenge in head and neck surgery. Early rehabilitation of speech, swallowing and chewing and prevention of severe hemorrhage of the carotid artery by soft tissue coverage is mandatory. If previous attempts with local lipocutaneous and myocutaneous flaps have failed, a two stage reconstruction by microsurgical transfer of a jejunal patch in combination with a myocutaneous latissimus dorsi flap will lead to sufficient lining and a permanent closure of the defect. The indication and the technical procedures in two clinical cases following multiple recurrences of pharyngo-esophagostomy due to irradiation damage of the neck are discussed.