Glottic reconstruction after near total laryngectomy.

It is generally accepted that vertical partial laryngectomy can yield satisfactory cure rates in properly selected glottic carcinomas. Several authors have discussed different reconstructive techniques following extended vertical partial laryngectomy. These have included the use of stents, keels, various soft tissue "free" grafts, or muscle transplants. All of the above require prolonged tracheostomy and staged surgical procedures with the resultant upper airway sometimes being less than satisfactory.