Early oral feeding following total laryngectomy

SAYDAM L., KALCIOGLU T., Kizilay A.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY, vol.23, no.5, pp.277-281, 2002 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 23 Issue: 5
  • Publication Date: 2002
  • Doi Number: 10.1053/ajot.2002.126321
  • Journal Name: AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.277-281
  • Inonu University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Introduction: Pharyngocutaneous fistula is one of the most common nonfatal laryngectomy complications (7.6% to 65% of all total patients). Preoperative radiotherapy, advanced tumor stage, poor preoperative medical status, and concomitant pharyngectomy are usually accepted causative factors in fistula formation. Delay of oral feeding is a common practice used by head and neck surgeons to prevent the development of pharyngocutaneous fistula. In this article we analyze our experience with special emphasis given to the early start of postoperative feeding.