Spontaneous resolution of a postoperative pharyngocutaneous fistula in a dog following repair of traumatic laryngeal avulsion

Authors: Simpson M, Brockman DJ
Publication: Australian Veterinary Practitioner, Volume 53, Issue 5, pp 201-208, Dec 2023
Publisher: Australian Veterinary Association

Animal type: Dog
Article class: Clinical Article

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Abstract:

Pharyngocutaneous fistulas (PCF) have been well described in the human medical literature as a postoperative complication following extensive head and neck oncologic resections. PCFs have been sparsely described in the veterinary literature. This report describes the postoperative formation and conservative management of a PCF following surgical repair of a traumatic laryngeal avulsion in a dog. This complication, although rarely encountered, should be considered when operating on traumatic wounds involving the laryngopharynx or when performing total laryngectomy or extensive resections in this anatomical region. Conservative management, including placement of a feeding tube, can lead to complete resolution.

Background: Pharyngocutaneous fistula in a dog has been sparsely reported in the literature; this report describes a dog with this complication following surgical repair of traumatic laryngeal avulsion. Furthermore, we establish that a successful outcome can be achieved with conservative management alone. This finding is potentially beneficial for any clinician faced with this complication. This report also discusses case management factors that may predispose to formation of PCF and steps to consider in the future when dealing with large wounds of the laryngopharynx in order to limit the formation of a PCF.

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