title: Drain removal and aspiration to treat low output chylous fistula.
abstract: Chylous fistula following neck dissection is difficult to treat. We hypothesized that timely removal of the suction drain followed by daily aspiration might aid in resolution of the condition. The study model is prospective cohort study. Out of 170 consecutive neck dissections, 7 (4 %) developed chylous fistula postoperatively. Retaining the suction drain was associated with resolution of the fistula in only one case. The remaining six had peak 24 h outputs between 85 and 675 ml that showed no significant fall despite maximal conservative treatment. Suction drain removal followed by daily needle aspiration however led to cessation of the fistula in all six cases. No patient required surgical re-exploration. Drain removal was associated with a significant fall in the volume of chylous output (p = 0.002). In selected cases of low output chylous fistula, suction drain removal and daily needle aspiration is an effective treatment option.
authors: Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Kovai Medical Center and Hospital, Avinashi Road, Coimbatore, 641 014, India, dhiwamahi@yahoo.com.
authors: Muthuswamy
authors: M
authors: Dhiwakar
authors: G I
authors: GI
authors: Nambi
authors: T V
authors: TV
authors: Ramanikanth
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D015331:Cohort Studies; D020878:Device Removal; D005260:Female; D005402:Fistula / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008206:Lymphatic Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D037981:Neck Dissection / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013396:Suction; D013897:Thoracic Duct / Q000293:injuries*
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