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Semin Plast Surg 2023; 37(01): 004-008
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1759561
Review Article

The Management of Salivary Fistulas

Alexandra Belcastro   *
1   Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
,
William Reed   *
1   Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
,
Liana Puscas
1   Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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Abstract

Postoperative salivary fistula is an especially undesirable complication because it can be difficult to address, may delay postoperative radiation, and always delays enteral nutrition. Patients who are malnourished, have already undergone radiotherapy, or are hypothyroid are at higher risk of developing this problem. Conservative measures work in most patients, but a significant percentage of patients require intervention beyond pressure dressings and tincture of time. Medications, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and surgical intervention may be required when fistulas do not heal in a timely manner. Decisions about the approach and timing of more aggressive interventions are part of the art of medicine since definitive scientific protocols are lacking.

Keywords

postoperative - salivary fistula - complication

* Co-first authors.




Publication History

Article published online:
03 December 2022

© 2022. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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