Pharyngocutaneous fistula complicating total laryngectomy

A series of 124 total laryngectomies for carcinoma is reviewed. The postoperative morbidity is discussed, and pharyngocutaneous fistula was found to occur in 30 patients. Its management is reviewed, and consideration is given to its relation to preoperative irradiation. This was found to increase its incidence and adversely affect the prospects of successful closure.