Conservative Strategies for the Management of Parotid Fistulae: A Case Series
摘要
Parotid fistula is a rare and unpleasant complication reported following after TMJ surgery, penetrating injury, stab wound, infection or, as a complication of neoplasm in the parotid region. Early detection and prompt treatment is necessary to prevent wound dehiscence, infection or sialocoele formation. Here we present 5 cases of parotid fistulae. Three patients presented with history of penetrating inury while the other 2 developed fistula after TMJ surgery. The diagnosis of the fistulae was done by clinical examination and confirmed by sialography Management of parotid fistulae involves conservative and surgical modalities. Our choice of treatment was based on the age of patients, site and severity of the injury. Conservative therapy includes pressure dressing, anticholinergics and injectables like botulinum toxin and saline.
MethodologyOur study included all adult patients within the age range of 35 to 55 years. In our study we present a simple yet effective method of treating parotid fistulae by using extraoral pressure dressing, keeping the patient on nil by mouth (NBM) and assisted by Ryle’s Tube feeding to prevent salivary stimulation by food, but maintaining nourishment via Ryle’s Tube. This was supplemented by anticholinergics and antihistamines to further reduce salivary secretions. In about 5 to 7 days, the fistulae healed spontaneously with no associated complications.
ConclusionIf the fistula arises in the gland parenchyma, conservative treatment with pressure packing and treating with anticholinergic drugs which reduce secretions and limiting the frequency of oral intake of food helps to heal the fistula. Ryle’s tube feeding helps to prevent the salivary secretions that occur due to oral intake. Antihistamines help reduce the oedema and secretions to a certain extent and can prove effective in treating salivary fistulae.