Repair of pharyngocutaneous fistula after total laryngectomy: A novel endoscopic approach

BackgroundPharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is a common and challenging complication of laryngectomy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of endoscopic repair of postlaryngectomy PCF. MethodsFive patients who underwent salvage laryngectomy complicated by PCF underwent endoscopic repair at a regional medical center between 2006 and 2013. Data were compiled through a manual chart review and demographic data, adjuvant treatment, comorbidities, and clinical course were all recorded. ResultsFive patients underwent endoscopic repair of PCF. All patients had previously received radiation or chemoradiation therapy and underwent salvage total laryngectomy. The mean number of days to resumption of oral intake after endoscopic repair was 22 days. One patient required reoperation. No complications were noted. ConclusionEndoscopic suture repair can be an effective method for treating PCF with less morbidity than flap reconstruction or conservative wound management. (c) 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck37: E81-E84, 2015