Orocutaneous Fistula in Modified Schobinger Neck Incision—Case Report

Abstract

Orocutaneous fistula is not an uncommon complication of neck dissection. It has been stated to have an incidence of 13.5–29% in local or regional flap. It can be a serious complication due to delay in wound healing, prolonged dependence on nasogastric tube and sometimes carotid sheath rupture. Many approaches have been proposed in the management of orocutaneous fistula and surgery was almost always advocated. Here we present a case of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tongue that underwent an operation of partial glossotomy and modified radical neck dissection that developed orocutaneous fistula postoperatively. We managed the case by conservative approach that had shown great success.