Enlarged tracheoesophageal puncture after total laryngectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Enlargement of the tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) is a challenging complication after laryngectomy with TEP. We sought to estimate the rate of enlarged puncture, associated pneumonia rates, potential risk factors, and conservative treatments excluding complete surgical TEP closure.

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted (1978-2008). A summary risk estimate was calculated using a random-effects meta-analysis model.

RESULTS: Twenty-seven peer-reviewed manuscripts were included. The rate of enlarged puncture and/or leakage around the prosthesis was reported in 23 articles (range, 1% to 29%; summary risk estimate, 7.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.8% to 9.6%). Temporary removal of the prosthesis and TEP-site injections were the most commonly reported conservative treatments. Prosthetic diameter (p = .076) and timing of TEP (p = .297) were analyzed as risk factors; however, radiotherapy variables were inconsistently reported.

CONCLUSION: The overall risk of enlarged puncture seems relatively low, but it remains a rehabilitative challenge. Future research should clearly establish risk factors for enlarged puncture and optimal conservative management.