HIGHLIGHTING THE PHARYNGOCUTANEOUS FISTULA RISK FACTORS AFTER TOTAL LARYNGECTOMY

Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is a major complication after total laryngectomy involving prolonged hospitalization, additional discomfort and increased treatment costs. This retrospective study, conducted over a 5 year period, included 118 patients that underwent total laryngectomy after larynx carcinoma. Various factors influencing PCF development are discussed. Statistical analisys of the results show an important role of smoking and alcohol abuse, tumor stage and extension, pre-operative radiotherapy and local complications. In studying PCF developing risk factors, multicenter studies are absolutely necessary.