What is Fistula?
A fistula is defined as an abnormal connection between two body parts.
A fistula can occur between an organ or blood vessel and another structure.
In general, fistulas occurs as a result of an injury or surgery.
It can also occur due to prolonged infection or inflammation.
What is an Oro-cutaneous fistula?
An Oro-cutaneous fistula as the name suggest is a pathological communication between the oral cavity and cutaneous surface (Skin).
When the connection is between the oral cavity and cutaneous surface of face, it is called Oro-facial fistula.
What are common causes of Oro-cutaneous fistula?
- Malignancy.
- Osteoradionecrosis (ORN).
- Inflammation.
- Trauma
- Residual lesions of the cyst.
- Tumors of the jaws.
What are the consequence of Oro-cutaneous fistula?
These defects can cause aesthetic and functional problems due to the continuous leakage of saliva.
Treatment of Oro-cutaneous fistula?
Diagnosing the cause that lead to the Oro-cutaneous fistula and treating the cause so that it doesn't recur.
The reconstruction of the Oro-cutaneous defects in the maxillofacial region should be based on the principles of function and aesthetic.