Tracheocutaneous fistula closure using a Cartilo-musculo-cutaneous bilobed flap

In general, the development of a tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) after tracheotomy is a seldom but recurrent clinical problem in long-term ventilated patients. In cases of prolonged wound healing with no spontaneous wound closure or insufficient later closure by secondary suture, different surgical procedures have been previously described for the closure of TCFs. Nonetheless, each procedure has its individually associated complications so that definite closure of TCFs still remains a challenge. The purpose of this case report is to present a unique case of a patient with a persistent TCF that was successfully closed using a local cartilo-musculo-cutaneous bilobed flap.