Laryngotracheal Reconstruction: From Lab to Clinic lines for using the technique of tracheal autotra- presents the experimental and clinical aspects of plantation in conservation laryngectomy. The tissue reconstruction of the larynx and trachea. shortcomings and complications of tracheal auto- The book reflects the development and implemen- transplantation encountered in the initial patient tation of a research-based clinical program. The series led to a modification of the technique. The experimental work was started in 1989 with the modified autotransplantation technique proved to aim of improving the reconstructive possibilities be reliable from a reconstructive, functional and in the following two clinical situations: (1) extend- oncological viewpoint. ed hemilaryngectomy defects after tumour In a second part (Chap. VI), healing aspects after removal and (2) tracheal stenoses that are impos- repair of laryngotracheal defects are highlighted. sible to repair by segmental tracheal resection. The The healing mechanisms of the cartilage support, two problems differ in localization (larynx, tra- the mucosal lining and the blood supply were chea), etiology (oncology, traumatic), and treat- studied for each tissue component individually.

I. Introduction

II. Limits in laryngotracheal reconstruction
III. Tracheal transplantation research
IV. From bench to bedside: Implementing tracheal autotransplantation as organ saving procedure after extended hemilaryngectomy
V. Modification of tracheal autotransplantation concept: Towards optimal reconstruction of extended hemilaryngectomy defects
VI. From wound healing research to tracheal reconstruction with preformed, composite tissue
VII. Other vascularized reconstructive tissue for laryngeal repair
VIII. Progress in head and neck reconstruction: a historical overview based on blood supply of the reconstructive tissue.