Failed voice restoration: closure of the tracheo-oesophageal fistula.
Tracheo-oesophageal fistula and voice prosthesis have revolutionised voice rehabilitation, but are not without their complications. The most significant problem is widening of the tracheo-oesophageal fistula relative to the voice prosthesis and subsequent leaking. Three-layer surgical closure is a means of permanently closing a problematic fistula. Use of an interposition in situ muscle graft as a second layer provides an adequate, well vascularised barrier to prevent fistula reformation. Our technique provides a safe, effective method of closing a problematic tracheo-oesophageal fistula. We report a five case series in which 100% of patients acquired satisfactory closure of their fistulae and resolution of their symptoms.
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O
Judd
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Bridger
D006801:Humans; D007831:Larynx, Artificial; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000652:urine; D013071:Speech, Alaryngeal; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000379:methods; D014138:Tracheoesophageal Fistula / Q000601:surgery*; D017211:Treatment Failure