Theoretical basis: complications after laryngectomy can cause serious consequences for the outcome of treatment. Such complications include: fistula formation, wound infection, lumbo necrosis, post-operative bleeding, dysphagia, and etc.
The Aim of the study is to determine the incidence of the most common post-operative complications after laryngectomy.
Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study including 60 patients who had undergone total laryngectomy in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at the University Hospital “Queen Giovanna” – ISUL, Sofia, 2012-2015. The analysis was conducted on all hospital documentation and postoperative screening of the patients.
Results: Development of pharyngocutaneous fistula in the postoperative period was observed in 12 patients. Eleven patients reported post-operative dysphagia. Post-operative bleeding was observed in 2 patients. Loss of weight (BMI <18.5) was documented in 9 of the patients.
Discussion: The development of the pharyngocutaneous fistula is the most common complication following laryngectomy. The incidence of postoperative infections in patients undergoing laryngectomy is 23% and may increase in patients undergoing radiotherapy. Balfe et al. in a study of 45 patients reported that 7 of them or 16% developed dysphagia. In another study by Pauloski et al. of 352 patients, 59% of them reported swallowing difficulty.
Conclusion: Fistula formation and dysphagia are the most common postoperative complications following laryngectomy.
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