Prevention of major and minor fistulae after laryngectomy

Abstract

Every Head and Neck surgeon has special techniques which he uses to get maximum rates of five‐year survival and minimum fistula formation, especially major fistula and carotid rupture. The literature reflects a wide variation in the rate of fistula formation. We reviewed the senior author's prior 78 total laryngectomies and noted a fistula rate of 10.3% (6.4% minor fistulae and 3.9% major fistulae). We also reviewed contributing factors and discuss surgical techniques designed to minimize fistula formation.