Tongue flap reconstruction of the hypopharynx.

Many different reconstructive procedures are available to the surgeon for restoration of a functioning conduit from the oral cavity to the esophagus. Most procedures require a lengthy single stage or multiple stages to complete reconstruction of the hypopharynx. The base of the tongue is a potential source for variously designed flaps that can be employed to reconstruct the hypopharynx following major resections. Because of proximity and rich vascularization of the tongue base, flaps fashioned from this region have proved to be very expedient and reliable in repair of large defects of the pharynx following subtotal laryngopharyngectomy and supraglottic laryngectomy.