New surgical trick may prevent dangerous leaks after throat cancer surgery

This study looks at whether using a piece of the patient's own tissue (a flap) to reinforce the closure after removing the voice box can reduce the risk of a throat leak (fistula). About 102 people whose throat cancer has returned after radiation or chemoradiation will be randomly assigned to standard closure or closure with a flap. The goal is to see which approach leads to fewer leaks and better quality of life.