Role of Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy in the Management of Submandibular Fistula After Reconstruction for Osteoradionecrosis.

PURPOSE: Although negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for complicated wounds has been extensively studied, it is rarely used in cases involving a submandibular fistula due to radiation-induced osteoradionecrosis of the mandible. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of NPWT for submandibular fistulas after reconstruction for osteoradionecrosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Nine patients with submandibular fistulas after reconstruction for osteoradionecrosis treated with NPWT between 2011 and 2014 were included in the study. The wound healing was documented. RESULTS: The NPWT device was removed postoperatively between days 7 and 12 (mean duration, 9.6 days). The wound bed was filled with healthy granulation tissue, and successful healing by second intention was observed in all patients within 2 weeks. No complications were observed. The follow-up ranged from 4 to 27 months (mean, 18 months); the fistulas exhibited excellent healing, and no recurrence or infection was observed. CONCLUSIONS: NPWT is a safe, effective technique for managing submandibular fistulas after reconstruction for osteoradionecrosis.