Abstract
Muco-cutaneous fistula is popularly seen after reconstruction of the cervical esophagus withdelto-pectoral skin flap. Factors concerning fistula formation and an operative technique to closeit safely were discussed in this paper. 12 cases (40%) out of 30 in my own series showed thiscomplication. Most of them, however, were incomplete in type having no epithelial layer andhealed spontaneously by simple pressure, reaving minimal functional disturbance. Complete fistulaof about 10mm diameter developed in two cases just lateral to tracheostoma. They were successfullyclosed by a modified Z-plasty utilizing the uppermost portion of the same delto-pectoral skin flaphaving a vascular supply from the perforator 11 in the second intercostal space.
