Closure techniques for esophageal reconstruction after total laryngectomy and their impact on fistula formation

BACKGROUND The rising incidence of laryngeal cancer has led to an increasing number of total laryngectomy procedures. While voice prostheses have significantly improved post-laryngectomy rehabilitation, the risk of salivary fistula remains a major complication. This study aims to compare the stapler and hand-sewn techniques for esophageal closure and evaluate their impact on fistula formation. AIM To compare stapler-assisted and hand-sewn esophageal closure techniques after laryngectomy regarding their impact on salivary fistula formation. METHODS A total of 52 patients (44 men, 8 women), aged 43 to 77 years, underwent total laryngectomy. Esophageal reconstruction was performed using either a stapler (29 patients) or a hand-sewn technique (23 patients). A surgical stapler TA was used for esophageal closure in the stapler group. Patients were clinically monitored for fistula formation during the first 7 days postoperatively and again two weeks after discharge using fiberoptic examination. RESULTS A total of 22 salivary fistulas were recorded: 17 (77.3%) occurred following the hand-sewn technique, while 5 (22.7%) developed in the stapler group. Additionally, preoperative radiotherapy was identified as a statistically significant risk factor for fistula formation. No technical complications related to the stapler device were observed. CONCLUSION Although hand-sewn closure is commonly used after total laryngectomy, stapler-assisted closure shows lower fistula rates and is a viable esophageal reconstruction alternative.