Oronasal fistula post-septoplasty

Abstract

Nasal septal surgery is one of the most common otolaryngology procedures performed, with rare occurrences of major postoperative complications. Oronasal fistula is a rare complication of septal surgery, with only few cases being reported in the literature. It is commonly caused by a congenital cleft palate, cleft palate surgery, traumatic injuries, infections, or neoplasms; however, it does not usually occur postseptal surgery. Here, we report the case of a 55-year-old male who presented with a symptomatic oronasal fistula post-septoplasty. Unlike other reported cases, there were no features of underlying palatal pathologies, and no previous history of other nasal or oral procedures. We described a multilayer surgical closure technique that was utilized in this case, with no recurrence seen during a 6-month follow-up period. Additionally, we reviewed the other 3 reported cases of this complication, and discussed the possible etiology in this case.