Tracheocutaneous fistula following paediatric tracheostomy--a 14-year experience at Alder Hey Children's Hospital

Outcome of Surgical Treatment for Tracheocutaneous Fistula in Paediatric Population: A Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) in children has dramatically increased with the increasing number of tracheostomies performed earlier in the paediatric population. Despite the various emerging techniques, two fundamental surgical approaches are primary closure and healing by secondary intention. We aim to compare the surgical outcomes between the two procedures.

DATA SOURCE

PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus databases were searched from inception to 31 December 2023 with no restrictions on the setting or design of studies.

REVIEW METHODS

Data were pooled using a random effects model to assess the success and complication rates between the two surgical techniques.

RESULTS

A total of 26 studies were identified with a total of 1263 children. Persistent TCF was surgically treated with primary closure in 24 studies (n = 898), whereas healing by secondary intention was reported in 12 studies (n = 366). The success rate following primary closure and healing by secondary intention is 97.3% (95% CI: 95.7%-99.0%) and 94.0% (95% CI: 91.2%-96.7%), respectively. The pooled rate of complications following primary closure was 14.1% (95% CI: 8.9%-19.4%) and 8.4% (95% CI: 3.4%-13.3%) following healing by secondary intention.

CONCLUSION

Based on the pooled results, healing by secondary intention is a safer surgical option in children with persistent TCF.

Primary vs. secondary closure of tracheocutaneous fistulas: A prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively compare outcomes and complications of the two most common techniques for closure of tracheocutaneous fistulas (TCFs): surgical excision of the tract with primary closure (PC), and de-epithelialization with healing by secondary intention (SI).

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary academic center.

METHODS

All patients who underwent closure of a TCF between 5/1/2022 and 5/30/2023 were eligible for inclusion in the study. Data was prospectively collected and included demographics, tracheostomy history, intraoperative data (including fistula size and closure technique), postoperative recovery and any complications.

RESULTS

There were 15 patients who underwent PC, and 10 patients who underwent closure by SI. Both cohorts were premature and had tracheostomies for at least 2 years prior to decannulation. The length of time from decannulation to closure was longer in the primary vs secondary group (p = .01). The operative time was significantly longer in the PC group (p = .002) and the PC group experienced a significantly higher number of postoperative respiratory complications (p = .05) during their postoperative admission. The average TCF size was larger in the SI group compared to the PC group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This prospective study demonstrated fewer postoperative respiratory complications for SI closure of TCFs compared to PC.

Closing the Gap: Exploring the Role of Cap Grafts in Tracheocutaneous Fistula Closure

Exploring the Role of Cap Grafts in tracheocutaneous fistula Closure. A tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) is an abnormal connection that forms between the trachea (windpipe) and the skin of the neck. If spontaneous closure does not occur, fibrosis of the surrounding tissue may result in a persistent TCF and in some cases, iatrogenic laryngotracheal stenosis at the level of tracheostoma, the so-called A-frame deformity. In all 5 patients, Conchal cartilage was harvested. The new de-epithelialized stoma is measured, and the previously harvested graft is cut to match the defect. Passing through the centre of the tracheal cartilage and into the centre of the auricular cartilage graft, 3-0 PDS, horizontal mattress sutures are placed sequentially around the periphery of the graft, stabilised with Right SCM flap and skin was closed in layers. In each of the five cases, we achieved a resounding success by skilfully closing the fistulas and meticulously restoring the structural integrity. Equally noteworthy, all patients expressed contentment with the cosmetic outcomes at both the donor site and the neck region, deeming it as an acceptable aesthetic result.

The U- advancement Burrow's Flap in Persistent Tracheocutaneous Fistula. ~ Case Report

Persistent tracheo-cutaneous fistulae necessitate a closure with pedicled or free flaps. The modality adopted is to reconstitute the anterior tracheal wall without compromising the tracheal lumen. We have developed the lateral U advancement Burrow's flap over the strap muscles and tracheal lateral fibrous flaps, to repair a large trachea-cutaneous fistula.

Comparison Between Flap and Primary Closures of Persistent Tracheocutaneous Fistula: A Scoping Review

Objectives: To compare the susceptibility and complication rates between flap and primary closures for tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF). Methods: We searched 4 online databases (Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Scopus) for relevant articles published from study inception until August 2022. Studies including at least 5 adult or child patients with persistent TCFs who underwent closure surgery via primary or flap repair were included. All included studies reported outcomes of surgical repairs such as successful closure rates and complications. In addition, we performed single-arm meta-analyses for each surgical method using the Open Meta-Analyst software to calculate the pooled event rate with a 95% confidence interval (CI); compared the 2 surgical procedures using the Review Manager software using the risk ratio with 95% CI; and assessed study quality based on the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute criteria. Results: Overall, 27 studies with 997 patients were included. No significant difference was observed between the closure success and major complication rates of surgical methods. The primary and flap closures had overall success rates of 0.979 and 0.98, respectively. The overall major complication rates in primary and flap closures were 0.034 and 0.021, respectively; and that of minor were 0.045 and 0.04, respectively. In primary closure, a significant decrease in the success rate with increasing age at the time of decannulation was observed. In addition, the risk of major complications increased with increasing time from decannulation to closure. Conclusions: Both the primary and flap repairs of TCF are effective based on closure success and complication rates; therefore, they are both acceptable therapeutic alternatives, and flap repair can be considered when other techniques have failed. However, further prospective randomized studies comparing these 2 procedures are needed to support our results.

Incidence of Persistent Tracheocutaneous Fistula After Pediatric Tracheostomy Decannulation

OBJECTIVES

To determine the incidence of tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) and identify characteristics associated with persistence.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort.

METHODS

All successfully decannulated children (<18 years) between 2014 and 2020 at a tertiary children's hospital were included. Revision tracheostomies, concomitant major neck surgery, or single-stage laryngotracheal reconstructions were excluded. A persistent TCF was defined as a patent fistula at 6 weeks after decannulation.

RESULTS

A total of 77 children met inclusion criteria with a persistent TCF incidence of 65% (50/77). Children with a persistent TCF were younger at placement (1.4 years (SD: 3.3) vs. 8.5 years (SD: 6.5), p < 0.001) and tracheostomy-dependent longer (2.8 years (SD: 1.3) vs. 0.9 years (SD: 0.7), p < 0.001). On univariate analysis, placement under 12 months of age (86% vs. 26% p < 0.001), duration of tracheostomy more than 2 years (76% vs. 11% p < 0.001), short gestation (64% vs. 26%, p = 0.002), congenital malformations (64% vs. 33%, p = 0.02), newborn complications (58% vs. 26%, p = 0.009), maternal complications (40% vs. 11%, p = 0.009) and chronic respiratory failure (72% vs. 41%, p = 0.01) were associated with persistent TCF. Logistic regression analysis associated duration of tracheostomy (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05-0.35, p < 0.001) and congenital malformations (OR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.06-0.99, p = 0.049) with failure to spontaneously close.

CONCLUSIONS

Two-thirds of children will develop a persistent TCF after tracheostomy decannulation. Persistent TCF is correlated with a longer duration of tracheostomy and congenital malformations. Anticipation of this event in higher-risk children is necessary when caring for pediatric tracheostomy patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 133:417-422, 2023.

Outcomes and complications of simple layered closure of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula after tracheostomy in childhood

BACKGROUND

Up to half of all children who have a tracheostomy will develop a persistent tracheo-cutaneous fistula (TCF) after decannulation. Surgical closure of the TCF is technically easy but post-operative complications can be immediate and life-threatening. These include air leak from the tracheal repair leading to massive surgical emphysema or pneumothorax. We reviewed our experience of TCF closure to try to identify potential risk factors for complications.

METHOD

Retrospective case record review of all children (0-16 years) who underwent surgical TCF closure between January 2010 and December 2021 following development of a persistent TCF after decannulation of a tracheostomy.

RESULTS

We identified 67 children. They ranged in age from 14 months to 16 years (median 3 years 10 months) at the time of the TCF closure. Major medical comorbidities were present in 90%. Pre-operative pulse oximetry with the fistula occluded was used in 29 children (43%). An underwater leak test was performed in 28 (42%). A non-suction drain was used in 29 children (43%). Prophylactic antibiotics were prescribed for 30 children (45%). Post-operative complications occurred in 15 children (22%). Life-threatening air leak occurred in the immediate post-operative period in 2 children (3%). Respiratory distress occurred in 3 children (4%) in the recovery area immediately after surgery. None required re-tracheostomy. Three children suffered post-operative pneumonia (4%), and wound infections occurred in 8 children (12%). We were unable to show a significant association between patient or surgical factors and complications.

DISCUSSION

Complications for TCF closure are unfortunately common and it is unclear from the available evidence how best to prevent them. Further research is required.

Primary versus secondary closure of tracheocutaneous fistula in pediatric patients

OBJECTIVE

Up to 50% of pediatric patients have a persistent tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) after tracheostomy decannulation. Classically these fistula tracts were excised and completely closed in a multilayered fashion, but recently closure by secondary intention has become the standard of care. However, variations in postoperative care still exist. The primary objectives of this study were to compare outcomes between patients who had a primary closure versus closure by secondary intention after excision of a TCF in children with a tracheostomy placement at one year old or less and to determine if closure by secondary intention will be equally efficacious compared to traditional primary closure.

METHODS

Patients ages 0-21 years who had a primary or secondary closure of a TCF at a tertiary care children's hospital following decannulation of a tracheostomy tube were reviewed and those with a tracheostomy placement ≤1 year old were included. Demographic information, comorbidities, and surgical information were extracted from inpatient and outpatient charts. Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher's Exact test, and logistic regression to compare outcomes across the two TCF surgical groups.

RESULTS

A total of 64 patients met inclusion with primary closures in 25 (39.1%) patients and secondary closures in 39(60.9%) patients. Patients who underwent secondary closure had a significantly shorter surgery duration (p < .001), shorter ICU length of stay (p < .001), and shorter postop LOS (p < .001). There were no differences in cardiac complications, respiratory complications, and the need for additional closure surgery between the two techniques, p > .05. Time from decannulation to TCF in months increased with primary closure, p = .010.

CONCLUSION

Closure of tracheocutaneous fistula by secondary intention is safe and effective and can allow for shorter hospital stays in children with a tracheostomy placement at a year old or less.

Primary versus modified secondary closure techniques for persistent tracheocutaneous fistula in pediatric patients

PURPOSE

This study aimed at compating two closure techniques for tracheocutaneous fistulas (TCFs) in pediatric patients.

METHODS

A total of 106 consecutive pediatric patients who underwent closure of a persistent TCF between April 2007 and February 2021 at a tertiary pediatric hospital were evaluated, and 103 pediatric patients aged between 12 months and 18 years were included. The clinical characteristics, perioperative outcomes, and postoperative outcomes were compared between TCF closure by primary closure (Group 1) and a modified secondary healing technique (Group 2).

RESULTS

Of the 103 patients, 58 were classified into Group 1, and 45 into Group 2. The mean age at tracheostomy and TCF closure was significantly younger in Group 2, and the interval between decannulation to TCF closure was significantly shorter in Group 2. Procedural time and hospital stay were significantly shorter in Group 2 than Group 1. Group 2 had a significantly lower complication rate, need for revision surgery, and recannulation rate than Group 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified secondary healing was more efficient in terms of procedural time and hospital stay, and safer (i.e., fewer complications). It is an effective surgical technique for closing a persistent TCF in younger patients more quickly after decannulation compared to primary closure.

Tracheocutaneous Fistula After Pediatric Open Airway Reconstruction

OBJECTIVES

Tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) is a common occurrence after pediatric tracheostomy decannulation. However, the persistence of TCF after staged reconstruction of the pediatric airway is not well-described. The primary objective was to determine the rate of persistent TCF after successful decannulation in children with staged open airway reconstruction.

METHODS

A case series with chart review of children who underwent decannulation after double-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction between 2017 and 2019.

RESULTS

A total of 26 children were included. The most common open airway procedure was anterior and posterior costal cartilage grafting (84.6%, 22/26). Median age at decannulation was 3.4 years (IQR: 2.8-4.3) and occurred 7.0 months (IQR: 4.3-10.4) after airway reconstruction. TCF persisted in 84.6% (22/26) of children while 15.4% (4/26) of stomas closed spontaneously. All closures were identified by the one-month follow-up visit. There was no difference in age at tracheostomy (P = .86), age at decannulation (P = .97), duration of tracheostomy (P = .43), or gestational age (P = .23) between stomas that persisted or closed. Median diameter of stent used at reconstruction was larger in TCFs that persisted (7.0 mm vs 6.5 mm, P = .03). Tracheostomy tube diameter (P = .02) and stent size (P < .01) correlated with persistence of TCF on multivariable logistic regression analysis. There were 16 surgical closure procedures, which occurred at a median of 14.4 months (IQR: 11.4-15.4) after decannulation. Techniques included 56.3% (9/16) by primary closure, 18.8% (3/16) by secondary intention and 25% (4/16) by cartilage tracheoplasty. The overall success of closure was 93.8% (15/16) at latest follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Persistent TCF occurs in 85% of children who are successfully decannulated after staged open airway reconstruction. Spontaneous closure could be identified by 1 month after decannulation and was more likely when smaller stents and tracheostomy tubes were utilized. Surgeons should counsel families on the frequency of TCF and the potential for additional procedures needed for closure.

Complications of tracheostomy in children: a systematic review

Introduction

Tracheostomy is a procedure that can be associated with several well-described complications in the literature, which can be divided into transoperative, early postoperative and late postoperative. When performed in children, these risks are more common than in adults.

Objective

To perform a systematic review of complications, including deaths, in tracheostomized pediatric patients.

Methods

A search was carried out for articles in the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature and PubMed databases. Cohort studies and series reports were selected, in addition to systematic reviews, published between January 1978 and June 2020, with patients up to 18 years old, and written in English, Spanish or Portuguese.

Results

1560 articles were found, of which 49 were included in this review. The average complication rate was 40%, which showed an association with age, birth weight, prematurity, comorbidities, and emergency procedures. The most common complications were cutaneous lesions and granulomas. Mortality related to the procedure reached up to 6% in children and was mainly related to cannula obstruction or accidental decannulation.

Conclusion

Pediatric tracheostomy is associated with several complications. The tracheostomy-related mortality rate is low, but the overall mortality of tracheostomized patients is not negligible.

Diagnostic considerations prior to pediatric tracheocutaneous fistula closure

INTRODUCTION

An airway assessment often occurs prior to tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) closure in children. Bronchoscopy (MLB) with or without fistula-occluded polysomnography (PSG) helps determine candidacy and localize potential obstruction. To date, little has been published on MLB or PSG findings in children before surgically closing a TCF.

METHODS

A case series with chart review of children between 2017 and 2020 who underwent repair of a TCF after tracheostomy decannulation.

RESULTS

Thirty-six children were included for review. Mean age was 5.9 years (95% CI: 4.5-7.3), 58.3% were male, and 50% had chronic lung disease. Surgery occurred 13.3 months (95% CI: 11.9-14.8) after decannulation, with 80.6% by primary closure and 19.4% by secondary intention. There was one unsuccessful closure and two patients (5.6%) presented with a postoperative complication. An MLB was performed in 97.2% of children, where 22.9% identified supraglottic pathology, 11.4% had grade 2 subglottic stenosis, and 11.4% had difficult exposure of the larynx. Further, one child had a non-obstructing subglottic cyst, one had a supraglottoplasty for redundant arytenoid mucosa, and two children had suprastomal granulomas requiring removal. A PSG was obtained in 36.1%, with a mean Apnea-Hypopnea Index of 2.4 events/hour (95% CI: 0.9-3.9), nadir Oxygen saturation of 90.5% (95% CI: 87.9-93.0), and peak end-tidal CO₂ of 46.1 mmHg (95% CI: 43.7-48.5).

CONCLUSION

The selection of candidates for pediatric TCF closure requires careful evaluation of the airway. Surgeons should be familiar with the potential findings on MLB and PSG prior to closure.

Treatment of Recurrent Tracheocutaneous Fistulas in the Irradiated Neck with a Two Layers-Two Flaps Combined Technique

The development of a tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) is a well-documented complication after tracheostomy, especially in chronic morbid patients, in whom tubes or cannulas are left in place over time, or in irradiated patients.

Surgical treatments are therefore needed which range from simple curettage and dressings to local skin flaps, muscle flaps and, in the more complex cases, microsurgical free tissue transfers.

We present a novel combined technique used to successfully treat recurrent TCFs in irradiated patients, involving a superiorly based turnover fistula flap and a sternocleidomastoid transposition flap.

Decision algorithm and surgical strategies for managing tracheocutaneous fistula

Background

Persistent tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) is a complication of prolonged use of tracheostomy tube. Although many procedures exist to correct this issue, there is no consensus regarding its optimal management. We constructed a decision algorithm to determine appropriate surgical strategies for TCF repair.

Methods

Retrospectively reviewing our hospital’s records, we found fourteen consecutive patients who had received surgical repair of tracheocutaneous fistula (primary closure or advanced local flap) between February 2013 and December 2018 and collected data relevant to their cases.

Results

We identified 11 male and 3 female patients. Duration of tracheostomy dependence was 8.1±4.7 months, and timespan from decannulation to surgical closure 7.4±6.5 months. Seven patients received primary closures, six received hinged turnover flaps, and one received random and perforator flap reconstruction. There was no perioperative mortality or morbidity except for one patient requiring a repeat tracheostomy 11 months after TCF repair due to pneumonia and subsequent respiratory failure. We used our findings and those reported in the literature to construct a modified risk factor scoring system based on patient’s physical status, major comorbidities, perifistular soft tissue condition, and nutritional status and an algorithm for managing TCF based on the patients’ fistula size and modified risk factor scores.

Conclusions

In conclusion, we were able to review our cases and those of other studies to create a risk scoring system and a decision algorithm that we believe will help optimize patient-directed surgical management of TCF repair.

Pediatric tracheocutaneous fistula closure following tracheostomy decannulation

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency and risk factors that lead to the development of persistent TCF (tracheocutaneous fistula) formation in children following tracheostomy decannulation at our institution.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of all pediatric patients at Children's Hospital Colorado who underwent tracheostomy decannulation and were being followed between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2013. TCF was defined as a persistent fistula six months following decannulation. We determined patient demographics, age at tracheotomy, primary indication for tracheotomy, tracheostomy-tube size, medical comorbidities, age at decannulation, date of TCF closure, and method of TCF closure.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-nine patients ranging from 51 days to 19 years of age underwent tracheostomy decannulation. 63 (49%) patients underwent surgical closure of TCF. Compared to those with spontaneous closure by multivariable analysis, those with surgical closure were younger at tracheostomy placement (p = 0.0002), had a tracheostomy for a longer duration (p = 0.0025), and were diagnosed with tracheobronchomalacia (p = 0.0051). The likelihood of spontaneous closure decreased over time. Tracheostomy tube internal diameter correlated with age (R = 0.64, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately 50% of pediatric tracheostomy stoma sites will close spontaneously. Development of a persistent TCF was associated with younger age at placement, longer duration of tracheostomy, and the presence of tracheobronchomalacia. These observations may help clinicians anticipate outcomes following tracheostomy decannulation in children.

Closure of tracheocutaneous fistula using prefabricated conchal bowl cartilage and a supraclavicular flap

BACKGROUND

Tracheocutaneous fistula represents one of the most troublesome complications of prolonged tracheostomy. Simple closure of a fistula can be ineffective, particularly in the context of prior surgery and adjuvant radiation. As such, modes of repair have expanded to include locoregional flaps and even free tissue transfers.

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes a case of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula in an irradiated patient who had undergone previous unsuccessful attempts at repair.

METHOD AND RESULTS

The use of regional fasciocutaneous supraclavicular flap with prefabricated conchal bowl cartilage resulted in successful closure of the tracheocutaneous fistula.

CONCLUSION

This represents a novel technique for closure of such fistulas in patients for whom previous attempts have failed. This mode of repair should be added to the surgeon's repertoire of reparative techniques.

Delayed complication of tracheocutaneous fistula closure with severe compromising subcutaneous emphysema

We report a significant complication after tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) excision with closure by secondary intention in a 4-year-old boy who had been tracheostomy dependent since infancy. He had a persistent 3 mm TCF one year after decannulation. On postoperative day 2 the patient developed profound subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum. He was extubated after 2 days and discharged from the hospital on postoperative day 7. At follow up he had complete resolution of subcutaneous emphysema and complete closure of the TCF. The main methods of TCF closure and management of subcutaneous emphysema are discussed along with the lessons learned from this case.

Pediatric Tracheostomy Decannulation: 11-Year Experience

OBJECTIVE

To determine the successful decannulation rate with a published pediatric tracheostomy decannulation protocol.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

SETTING

A single tertiary care institution.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A chart review was performed for patients aged ≤5 years who underwent tracheostomy. Extracted data included demographic data, indication for tracheostomy, age at tracheostomy and decannulation, comorbidities, and surgical complications. Records were searched for documentation of early decannulation failure (within 1 month of decannulation) or late failure (within 1 year).

RESULTS

Forty patients with a tracheostomy aged ≤5 years underwent attempted decannulation during the 11-year study period. Seventeen patients were excluded from the study for documentation of nonprotocol decannulation. The final study population of 23 patients underwent a total of 27 decannulations, 26 of which were performed by protocol. Of the 26 protocol decannulations, 22 were successful, for a failure rate of 15%.

CONCLUSION

Twenty-six protocol decannulations were attempted among 23 patients, 4 of which were unsuccessful for an overall failure rate of 15%. This result is consistent with rates reported in other published decannulation protocols. We believe that our protocol minimizes resource utilization in its use of pulse oximetry over polysomnography, while maximizing patient safety and success through the use of capping trials for very young and very small pediatric patients.

Positive airway pressure ventilation and complications in pediatric tracheocutaneous fistula repair

OBJECTIVES

Surgical repair of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula in children may be complicated by tracheal air leak with resultant subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and/or pneumothorax. We first sought to identify clinical risk factors for postoperative complications after primary repair of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula in children. Second, the type and frequency of complications in patients administered positive airway pressure ventilation (e.g., bag-valve mask ventilation, continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP], or bilevel positive airway pressure [BiPAP]) postoperatively was determined and compared to a control population.

METHODS

This was a retrospective investigation of all pediatric patients (n = 108) undergoing surgical repair of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula from January 2000 and April 2016 at a tertiary, academic referral center. Type and frequency of postoperative complications were compared among patients who were administered positive airway pressure ventilation postoperatively versus those who were not.

RESULTS

Of 108 pediatric patients, complications after tracheocutaneous fistula repair occurred in 22 (20.4%) patients. These included symptoms of respiratory distress requiring intervention (e.g., supplemental O₂ , racemic epinephrine, intubation), subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum and/or pneumothorax, bleeding, wound infection, and readmission. Frequency of all postoperative complications was significantly higher in patients administered positive airway pressure ventilation versus those who were not (50.0% vs. 16.7%, P = 0.015), as were rates of subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and/or pneumothorax (33.3% vs. 4.2%, P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Positive airway pressure ventilation after primary repair of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula in children may increase risk of serious respiratory complications. In practice, we advocate for avoidance of bag-valve mask ventilation and caution when utilizing CPAP or BiPAP postoperatively in these patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 130:E30-E34, 2020.

Perioperative management of tracheocutaneous fistula closure in children: A review of 96 cases

BACKGROUND

A tracheocutaneous fistula is a known complication following tracheostomy decannulation. Although surgical techniques for its repair are well described, there is no consensus about perioperative management and this procedure may generate significant airway and respiratory complications intraoperatively, and in the early postoperative period. We aimed to describe variations in perioperative management in tracheocutaneous fistula closure, estimate the incidence of early airway and respiratory complications, and identify any predisposing factors.

METHODS

The otorhinolaryngology surgical database identified 118 tracheocutaneous fistula closures from August 1994 to September 2015. Ninety-seven case notes were located generating 96 procedures for retrospective review. The data collected included demographics, comorbidities, anesthetic, and surgical technique, and complications up to 24 hours postoperatively.

RESULTS

The median age at surgery was 5 years 10 months (range 1 year 8 months to 19 years 6 months). Preoperatively, 72% of patients had a "mini" sleep study (where the tracheocutaneous fistula is covered and saturations measured overnight). Ninety percent had an inhalational induction and 96% a tracheal intubation. Intraoperatively, laryngospasm occurred in 2% and there was difficulty ventilating in another 2%. A "leak test" to check fistula repair airtightness was recorded in 35%. Postoperatively 24% had one or more episodes of oxygen desaturation. Major complications occurred in five patients (incidence 5%, 95% CI 0.8-9.7); four patients had pneumothoraxes with two needing postoperative mechanical ventilation and one patient developed life-threatening subcutaneous emphysema.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative care for children undergoing tracheocutaneous fistula closure was not standardized. Advocated tests such as preoperative "mini" sleep studies and "leak test" intraoperatively were not consistently performed. Intraoperative anesthetic complications were uncommon; however, major postoperative respiratory complications were 5%.

Tracheocutaneous Sinus following Tracheocutaneous Fistula Repair: Management Strategies in a Pediatric Patient

Objective

To present a rare case of a pediatric tracheocutaneous sinus years after repair of a tracheocutaneous fistula and to review management strategies.

Background

A tracheocutaneous fistula is a common sequela of pediatric tracheostomy and can occur in as many as one in three pediatric patients. There is debate in the literature regarding optimal surgical management.

Case Presentation

An 8-year-old girl presented to the emergency department with swelling and erythema over the anterior neck. Clinical exam and diagnostic imaging revealed an underlying tracheocutaneous sinus.

Discussion

Complications following pediatric tracheostomy are common and range in complexity from stomal granulation to tracheocutaneous fistula. There is some debate regarding the optimal surgical management of children with tracheocutaneous fistula following tracheostomy. This report discusses the management of a pediatric child with an unusual tracheocutaneous sinus and reviews the various surgical techniques which have been described for definitive repair.

Duration of tracheostomy dependence and development of tracheocutaneous fistula in children

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the risk of developing a tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) increases with longer tracheostomy dependence times in children.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of medical records.

METHOD

A retrospective chart review was conducted for all children who both underwent tracheotomy and were decannulated between 2002 and 2011 at a tertiary children's hospital. Charts were analyzed for duration of tracheostomy and evidence of TCF up to 12 months. Data for these criteria was available on 164 out of 182 patients.

RESULTS

A significant difference in the duration of tracheostomy dependence between children with and without resultant TCF was determined by the Wilcoxon signed rank test (P = 0.0003). The relative risk (RR) of a persistent TCF was significantly increased when the duration of tracheostomy dependence was greater than 24 months (RR = 2.5217, P < 0.005) when compared to those decannulated before 12 months. The mean tracheostomy dependence times for children with and without TCF were 33.1 and 23.4 months, respectively. Overall, 94 children (57.3%) developed a TCF.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this study represents the largest collection of data for children who have been decannulated following tracheostomy placement. These data demonstrate that the risk of developing a TCF increases with longer tracheostomy dependence times in children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2709-2712, 2017.

Tracheocutaneous Fistula Closure: Comparison of Rhomboid Flap Repair with Z Plasty Repair in a Case Series of 40 Patients

INTRODUCTION

Tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) is one of the recognized sequelae of a long-term tracheostomy resulting from mucocutaneous overgrowth which prevents closure of the artificial lumen at the site of tracheostomy. Primary closure of TCF has disappointing results and may lead to complications like pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, cervicofacial subcutaneous emphysema, and depressed scar.

OBJECTIVE

To compare TCF repair using fistulectomy followed by rhomboid flap versus fistulectomy followed by Z plasty repair.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 40 patients of either sex with persistent TCF were included. All patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group I had 20 patients who underwent TCF repair using a technique in which fistulectomy was done followed by its closure in layers, and finally closing the defect using a rhomboid flap. The remaining 20 were included in group II who underwent TCF repair using a technique in which fistulectomy was done followed by layered closing, and final closure of the defect was done using Z plasty. The follow-up period was 3 months.

RESULTS

Out of 40 patients, all but 8 experienced a successful outcome without any complications, and complete aesthetic satisfaction, with improvement in phonation, and no soiling of clothes with mucus or sputum. The 8 unsuccessful patients belonged to group II (Z plasty group).

CONCLUSION

Both techniques have been described in the literature and are proven to give good results. Our study emphasizes the fact that in our experience, the rhomboid flap was a better alternative for TCF repair than Z plasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Tracheocutaneous fistula closure in children

OBJECTIVE

Systematic review of surgical techniques for tracheocutaneous fistula closure in children and successful closure or development of adverse events.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library.

REVIEW METHODS

A medical librarian was utilized to perform a systematic review.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies were identified. Eight studies reported outcomes for primary closure alone; one discussed results for secondary closure alone; and five included a combination of children who underwent either primary and secondary closure alone. No difference between surgical techniques was identified for effectiveness of closure (RR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.97 to 1.10) and major (RR = 1.68, 95% CI: 0.56 to 5.05) or minor complications (RR = 1.28, 95% CI: 0.50 to 3.27). No mortalities were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Both primary and secondary closure techniques for persistent tracheocutaneous fistulas in children are effective and associated with acceptable rates of complications. Given the available evidence, neither approach appears to be superior. Considerations for decision making in surgical approach may include family and social considerations, facility resource utilization, and cost differential. Further investigation may be directed at improving patient selection.

Stomal maturation does not increase the rate of tracheocutaneous fistulas

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To determine the rate of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) in pediatric patients managed with stomal maturation at the time of the tracheostomy.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart analysis of all cases of tracheostomy performed at a tertiary pediatric care center between 2001 and 2011.

METHODS

The use of stomal maturation, number of decannulations, number of persistent TCFs, timing of TCF repair, and the overall mortality were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 264 patients received tracheostomy between 2001 and 2011. Of the total, 173 (66%) underwent stomal maturation. Of those 173 patients, 89 patients (51% of maturation group) underwent planned decannulation. Forty seven (53%) of the 89 decannulated were found to have a persistent TCF in the stomal maturation group. These were diagnosed an average of 1.3 years (range, 4-43 months) after decannulation. Of the 91 patients (34% of the total) who did not undergo stomal maturation, 44 (48% of nonmaturation group) underwent planned decannulation. Twenty of the 44 patients decannulated (45%) were diagnosed with a residual TCF 8 to 28 months later. Both groups achieved similar rates of decannulation (51% maturation vs. 48% non-maturation [P = .80]) and TCF (27% maturation vs. 22% non-maturation [P = .44]). Overall, mortality rates were (32/173) 18% (matured) versus (26/91) 29% (nonmatured). No mortalities were tracheostomy related. The mean (standard deviation) time from operation to TCF closure among those with TCF was 4.0 (1.9) years.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparable rates of persistent TCF with stomal maturation (27%) and without maturation (22%) were found in this single institution's 10-year experience.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4. Laryngoscope, 126:2395-2398, 2016.

Systematic review of surgery for persistent pediatric tracheocutaneous fistula

OBJECTIVES

To compare the treatment outcomes and adverse event rates for primary closure compared to simple excision with healing by secondary intention for persistent tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) in children.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

METHODS

Systematic review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses reporting standards. MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and manual search were used to identify articles. Inclusion criteria were case series or comparative studies of surgery for persistent TCF in children under age 18 years. Exclusion criteria were age 18 years or older, duplicate patient series, case series with less than two patients, or case reports. Data were pooled using random effects meta-analysis to assess outcomes, adverse events, and comparative effectiveness.

RESULTS

We identified 14 articles with 413 patients treated with excision with primary closure and 233 patients treated with excision with closure by secondary intention. Pooled success rates were 95.7% with primary closure (95% confidence interval [CI]: 93.1% to 97.4%) and 92.7% with secondary intention (95% CI: 88.4% to 95.4%). Subcutaneous emphysema or urgent airway problems were uncommon, occurring in 3.8% and 3.6% of patients, respectively. Five studies had data suitable for comparative meta-analysis, which showed no differences by closure technique for treatment success (P = .480), overall complications (P = .551), need for revision surgery (P = .624), or the incidence of subcutaneous emphysema or pneumothorax (P = .512), urgent airway problems (P = .126), wound infection (P = 1.00), or wound dehiscence or fistula (P = .818).

CONCLUSIONS

There are no differences in the rates of success or complications with surgical closure of TCF in children, whether performed by primary closure or by secondary intention. Both techniques have high success rates with a low incidence of serious complications. Laryngoscope, 127:241-246, 2017.

Trichloroacetic Acid Chemocauterization: A Simple Method to Close Small Tracheocutaneous Fistula

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of chemocauterization using trichloroacetic acid with or without suturing for the small tracheocutaneous fistula closure

METHODS

The Seoul National University Hospital database was analyzed retrospectively for 55 patients with a small tracheocutaneous fistula measuring less than 5 × 5 mm(2). Of these, 39 patients were treated by chemocauterization only, and 16 patients were treated by chemocauterization with suturing. Demographic, perioperative data, and treatment outcomes were evaluated for all patients.

RESULTS

The success rate of single trial was 56.4% (31/55), and the final success rate after repeated procedures if indicated was 80.0% (44/55). There were no statistically significant differences in age, sex, cannulation period, fistula size, presence or absence of maturation suture during tracheostomy, number of procedures, and success rates. Interval between decannulation and procedure was significantly different among 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Trichloroacetic acid chemocauterization could be a simple, noninvasive, and safe method to close small tracheocutaneous fistula.

The use of a prefabricated radial forearm free flap for closure of a large tracheocutaneous fistula: a case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

The closure of complex tracheocutaneous fistulae is a surgical challenge. We describe a staged approach for management of a patient with a large tracheocutaneous fistula in the setting of prior surgery and local radiation therapy.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 66-year-old Caucasian man who had undergone prior surgery and radiation therapy to the lower neck presented to our hospital for treatment of a large tracheocutaneous fistula that had developed with an adjacent area of tracheal stenosis. A prefabricated composite graft made up of an inner mucosal lining (buccal mucosa), a central cartilage structure (conchal cartilage), and external skin lining was constructed on the patient's distal volar forearm and subsequently harvested in a staged fashion. This graft was transferred as a free flap and successfully used to close the patient's defect following revascularization. Sixty months after surgery, the patient had no airway compromise or new dysphonia.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a prefabricated mucosally lined composite graft can allow for successful closure of large tracheocutaneous fistulae, even in the setting of prior radiation therapy.

Tracheostomy in neurologically compromised paediatric patients: role of starplasty

OBJECTIVES

Starplasty tracheostomy is an alternative to traditional tracheostomy. This paper reviews neurologically compromised paediatric patients with tracheostomies and discusses the role of starplasty tracheostomy.

METHOD

A retrospective review was conducted of paediatric patients with a neurological disorder who underwent tracheostomy between 1997 and 2011.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients, with an average age of 7.3 years, were identified. The most common indications for tracheostomy were: ventilator dependence (39.6 per cent), an inability to tolerate secretions or recurrent aspiration pneumonia (33.3 per cent), and upper respiratory obstruction or hypotonia (12.5 per cent). The most common underlying neurological diagnosis was cerebral palsy. There were no early complications. Eighteen (43 per cent) of 42 patients with follow up experienced at least 1 delayed complication. Only 12 patients (28.6 per cent) were decannulated.

CONCLUSION

Patients with primary neurological diagnoses have low rates of decannulation; starplasty tracheostomy should be considered for these patients. Patients with seizure disorder or acute neurological injury tended to have a higher short-term decannulation rate; traditional tracheostomy is recommended in these patients.

Tracheocutaneous fistula closure in the pediatric population: should secondary closure be the standard of care?

OBJECTIVE

Tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) closure is achieved by excision followed either by primary closure or healing by secondary intention. Although primary closure provides immediate resolution of the fistula, it is associated with more severe potential complications. Healing by secondary intention minimizes these potential complications; however, it is inconvenient for the patient and may be more likely to require revision surgery. We have had 2 life-threatening complications after primary closure, and as a result, we largely changed our practice pattern. We compared complication and success rates of the 2 methods since this change to determine its ramifications.

STUDY DESIGN

Historical cohort study.

SETTING

Academic tertiary care pediatric otolaryngology practice. Subjects and Methods Two hundred sixteen patients who underwent TCF closure between January 2004 and August 2012.

RESULTS

Forty-six (21.3%) fistulae were addressed by primary closure, and 170 (78.7%) were addressed by secondary intention. The complication and revision rates were not significantly different between the 2 methods (8.7% vs 10% and 8.7% vs 14.7%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In our study, we did not see any statistical differences between the 2 methods studied but could not exclude clinically important differences that may have favored one method over the other. Although our comparative results were inconclusive, we have adopted secondary closure as standard practice for management of pediatric TCF. Individual surgeons and patients may use the data presented to help guide decisions concerning which procedure is most appropriate.

Thyroid ala cartilage graft laryngotracheoplasty for closure of large pediatric tracheocutaneous fistula

We describe a novel technique for closure of a large, persistent, pediatric tracheocutaneous fistula using a thyroid ala cartilage graft. Case report and review of the literature. We report 2 cases of large (>4mm), pediatric tracheocutaneous fistulas, in which primary closure of the tracheal defect would have caused critical airway narrowing and were managed with an anterior laryngotracheal reconstruction with a thyroid ala cartilage graft and closure of the tracheocutaneous fistula. The patients were extubated immediately postoperatively and maintained successfully closed fistulas with no clinically significant airway compromise. One of the considerations in pediatric tracheocutaneous fistula closure is to assess how the airway luminal diameter will be affected by primary closure of the tracheal defect. If primary closure of the tracheal opening causes critical airway narrowing because of a large tracheocutaneous fistula, a thyroid ala cartilage graft may be used for laryngotracheoplasty and allow for primary closure with a layered closure of the overlying strap muscles and soft tissue.