[Application of epiglottic in reconstruction of traumatic laryngotracheal stenosis].

Objective: To investigate the application and long-term results of epiglottic in reconstruction of the traumatic laryngotracheal stenosis.
Methods: From January 1988 to February 2002, 42 patients with traumatic laryngotracheal stenosis were treated, including 33 laryngeal stenosis and 9 laryngotracheal stenosis. The following surgical treatment were performed: (1) lowered epiglottic and bi-pedicled sternohyoid myofascial flap and (2) lowered epiglottic and bi-pedicled sternohyoid myofascial flap and sternocleidomastoideus clavicle membrane flap.
Results: Thirty-seven patients (88.1%) were successfully extubated 10 to 75 days after operation. Feeding tube lasted from 9 to 24 days, all the patients rehabilitated deglutition after surgery. The time of using stent was 9 to 19 days in 25 cases. All patients were followed up 1 year to 3 years and 4 months. The function of larynx recovered completely in 37 extubated patients and partially in 5 cannulated patients.
Conclusion: Epiglottic has the advantages of easy gain, high anti-infection and survival rate, and stable structure. A combination of epiglottic and the bi-pedicled sternohyoid myofascial flap plus sternocleidomastoideus clavicle membrane flap can repair large laryngeal and tracheal defects.