Pharyngeal Mucosal Margin Vessel Counts Predict Pharyngocutaneous Fistula in Salvage Laryngectomy.
Andrew D P PrinceMolly E Heft NealMarisa R BuchakjianSteven B ChinnChaz L StuckenKeith A CasperKelly M MalloyMark E P PrinceAndrew J RoskoJonathan B McHughMatthew E SpectorPublished in: Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (2024)
After salvage laryngectomy, patients with higher mean mucosal margin vessel counts are at increased risk of fistula. The mechanism is unknown, but the disorganization of the vasculature may contribute to poor wound healing. Vessel counting may allow for fistula risk stratification and guide postoperative care.