Defect-oriented reconstruction after transoral robotic surgery for oropharyngeal cancer: a case series and review of the literature

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is a fascinating new technique that has been shown to be a safe and feasible treatment for selected oropharyngeal cancers. Furthermore, TORS might offer some advantages in selected locoregionally advanced cancers. Thus, the patient selection is the keypoint for the useful application of TORS. However, the reconstruction of large oropharyngeal defects is challenging due to the restoration of velopharyngeal competency and swallowing. Moreover, the absence of mandibular splitting increases the difficulties faced by reconstructive surgeons. The paradigm for oropharyngeal reconstruction has undergone changes paralleling reflecting the overall change in the trend of the treatment alternatives over the last few decades. Flap choice and harvesting should be tailored to obtain significant advantages both in functional terms and for easy insetting. In this review, we analyse the strengths and weaknesses of the various flaps used in TORS framework with particular regards on our preliminary experience.