Early oral feeding following total laryngectomy

SAYDAM L., KALCIOĞLU M. T. , KIZILAY A.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY, vol.23, no.5, pp.277-281, 2002 (Peer-Reviewed Journal) 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, Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.277-281

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.