Hydrogen peroxide aids assessment of pharyngeal closure after laryngectomy.
OBJECTIVE
Pharyngocutaneous fistula is a serious complication following total laryngectomy. We report a simple technique which is useful in assessing the adequacy of pharyngeal closure following total laryngectomy.


METHODS
Installation of 1.5 per cent hydrogen peroxide into the oral cavity, while observing for leakage at the pharyngeal repair.


RESULTS
We have found this technique to be useful in 22 patients undergoing total laryngectomy with pharyngeal resection and neck dissection.


CONCLUSIONS
This method ensures that pharyngeal closure has been technically adequate.
Tysome
J R
JR
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK. jamestysome@yahoo.com
Jeannon
J P
JP
Simo
R
R
D017577:Cutaneous Fistula / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D005402:Fistula / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D006861:Hydrogen Peroxide; D007825:Laryngectomy / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D016877:Oxidants; D010608:Pharyngeal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control
D016877:Oxidants; D006861:Hydrogen Peroxide