Free anterolateral thigh flap for reconstruction of upper aerodigestive tract defects

[Soft palate reconstruction]

Soft palate reconstruction is complex. It has to restore swallowing and speech replacing the defect by dynamic and sensitive tissues. The means are multiple from direct suture to free flaps. Local flaps have the advantage to bring a mucosa animated by thin muscles, like in sphincteroplasty. Free flaps allow reconstruction of large defects, but they need some local adaptation (association with a local flap, adherence, suspension with tendon…) to improve the functional result. Indications depend on defect's size and local condition especially radiotherapy history.