A technique for glottic reconstruction following vertical partial laryngectomy.

In order to obtain a good phonatory function by glottic reconstruction following vertical partial laryngectomy, the following basic conditions should be satisfied: (1) adequate glottic closure should occur during phonation; (2) the top of the bulge constructed on the operated side should be located at the level of the vocal fold in order to prevent ventricular fold vibration; and (3) the surface of the bulge should be smooth. A technique for glottic reconstruction which appears to meet these requirements is described. The sternohyoid muscle is dissected at the requirements is described. The sternohyoid muscle is dissected at the level 5 cm below the vocal fold, and the upper portion is used as a single pedicled flap. The muscle flap is bent approximately 90 degrees at the level of the upper border of the cricoid cartilage and inserted into the intralaryngeal wound so as to make a large bulge. The muscle flap is covered by hypopharyngeal mucosa or a free graft of lip mucosa.