[Problem of the surgical treatment of malignant tumors of the hypopharynx and cervical esophagus].

One of the drawbacks in one-stage reconstruction of the cervical oesophagus and the hypopharynx is the mortality and morbidity of intestinal transposition or free mucosal grafts. The follow up in 19 patients over the last four years showed that the pectoralis major flap is a good alternative for partial reconstructions of the upper gullet, provided that a mucosal strip of 2 cm can be preserved and that secondary shrinkage of the muscle pedicle is allowed for. This means of reconstruction is not ideal for circumferential lesions because of stricture formation and the high risk of fistula formation. Pectoralis major flaps tolerate postoperative radiotherapy well. Functional rehabilitation of the patients can usually be achieved within four weeks.