BACKGROUND: Parotid fistula is a cause of great distress and embarrassment to the patient. A host of treatment modalities have been described in past but no unanimity exists regarding the most satisfactory of all. Tympanic neurectomy is an effective procedure for persistent parotid fistula with no significant side effects. OBJECTIVE: To describe our experience with tympanic neurectomy for the treatment of persistent parotid fistula and discuss the other treatment modalities described. SETTING: Tertiary care referral centre. METHODS: Two cases with post traumatic parotid fistula recalcitrant to conservative therapy were treated with tympanic neurectomy between 2004-2005. The cases were followed up regularly for any recurrence of fistula. RESULTS: Successful and immediate cessation of flow from parotid fistula with no recurrence in subsequent followup. CONCLUSION: Tympanic neurectomy is a safe and effective procedure for the successful treatment of persistent parotid fistula.
BACKGROUND:Parotid fistula is a cause of great distress and embarrassment to the patient. A host of treatment modalities have been described in past but no unanimity exists regarding the most satisfactory of all. Tympanic neurectomy is an effective procedure for persistent parotid fistula with no significant side effects. OBJECTIVE: To describe our experience with tympanic neurectomy for the treatment of persistent parotid fistula and discuss the other treatment modalities described. SETTING: Tertiary care referral centre. METHODS: Two cases with post traumatic parotid fistula recalcitrant to conservative therapy were treated with tympanic neurectomy between 2004-2005. The cases were followed up regularly for any recurrence of fistula. RESULTS: Successful and immediate cessation of flow from parotid fistula with no recurrence in subsequent followup. CONCLUSION: Tympanic neurectomy is a safe and effective procedure for the successful treatment of persistent parotid fistula.