Ultrasonographic swallowing examination for early detection of neopharyngeal fistula after salvage total laryngectomy: A preliminary study

Abstract

Background

The current study investigated the feasibility of ultrasonographic swallowing examination (USSE) for the evaluation of neopharynx and early detection of neopharyngeal fistula after salvage total laryngectomy.

Methods

A prospective case series‐based study involving 16 patients who underwent salvage total laryngectomy was conducted. USSE was performed on postoperative days 5‐7, and oral diet initiation was determined based on the USSE results.

Results

Fistula of the neopharynx was detected in four patients (25%) via USSE, as was the specific site of the fistula. In these patients, oral diet was delayed and immediate interventions including ultrasound‐guided fluid aspiration and compression dressing were applied, and all fistulas were subsequently closed. In the remaining 12 patients with no neopharyngeal fistula on USSE, an oral diet was started immediately and no fistula occurred.

Conclusions

USSE is a promising method for neopharynx evaluation and early detection of neopharyngeal fistula after salvage total laryngectomy.

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