Four cases of postoperative complications in the head and neck region treated with negative pressure wound therapy

Abstract

Orocutaneous and pharyngocutaneous fistulas represent one of the most troublesome postoperative complications in the head and neck region. Fistula causes wound infection by exposure to saliva, and treatment can take a long time.
In this report, we review four cases of postoperative complications in the head and neck region treated with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). In all four cases, continuous negative pressure was able to be applied and wound infection did not worsen during NPWT, with the fistulas successfully closing without additional surgery. In addition to promoting healing, NPWT saves time by obviating the need for frequent dressings and avoiding dermatitis.
We consider NPWT as a useful option for the treatment of postoperative complications in the head and neck region, if application is considered carefully.