[Role of the free forearm flap in reconstruction after total circular pharyngolaryngectomy. Review of the literature and a case report].

Methods of surgical repair after total pharyngo-laryngectomy have considerably improved since the introduction of micro-surgical techniques. The use of free autografts for reconstruction of the pharynx is now preferred in most centers to the use of musculo-cutaneous flaps. The free forearm flaps appears to be particularly suitable for this type of repair. The authors report on their experience in performing this procedure with one of their patients. The results of this technique in major published series are then compared with those achieved with similar procedures employing free jejunal interposition grafts.