Abstract
The use of implanting titanium mesh for laryngotracheal reconstruction is explained in this report. A titanium mesh with a thickness of 0.4mm was used as a framework for full thickness defects of the larynx and trachea after resection of locally advanced thyroid carcinoma (T4). First, it was implanted next to the laryngotracheal stoma, which had been made during the initial treatment of the thyroid carcinoma. About three weeks after the implantation of the titanium mesh, a hinged flap including cervical skin and platysma was harvested and used for the closure of the stoma. The internal lining of the reconstructed airway was covered with cervical skin. The skin defect on the neck created from harvesting the hinged flap was covered with rotational flap advancement without requiring skin grafts. The diameter of the airway was sufficiently maintained.
This method of reconstruction using titanium mesh and a hinged cervical skin flap had no major complications or difficulties, with an absence of exposure or rejection of the titanium mesh. This material has an affinity to the human body and is very easy to obtain and utilize safely for operations.
