Infectious complications in head and neck surgery: Porto Oncology Centre retrospective analysis

Indication for management of oropharyngocutaneous fistulas after head and neck reconstruction using a “stick‐shaped platysma flap” technique

“…Oropharyngocutaneous fistula after head and neck reconstruction occurs frequently 1 and is one of the most intractable complications that can negatively affect patient quality of life, due primarily to dysphagia. Factors contributing to its intractability are as follows: (1) comparatively large numbers of bacteria exist in the oral cavity and pharynx, disrupting wound healing by way of either infection or colonization; (2) influx of saliva and swallowing pressure can impede wound healing; (3) orocutaneous fistulas are often located beneath the mandible, where the cortical bone can be an obstacle to wound healing.…”