Osteoradionecrosis of the head and neck: a case of a clavicular-tracheal fistula secondary to osteoradionecrosis of the sternoclavicular joint

Abstract

Radiation therapy is an integral part of treatment for head and neck cancer, but its use is not without complications. We describe the first reported sternoclavicular-tracheal fistula resulting from osteoradionecrosis (ORN) at the medial clavicle. This ORN resulted from definitive radiation therapy for a primary pyriform sinus squamous cell carcinoma. The diagnosis of ORN was made by fiberoptic bronchoscopy. The physiologic damage of ORN is based on a compromised blood supply and altered metabolism of bone formation secondary to effects of ionizing radiation. Treatment requires meticulous hygiene, antibiotics, and debridement as conservative therapy. Radical surgery and reconstruction may be indicated in refractory cases. A thorough preirradiation assessment of patients is mandatory to decrease the incidence of radiation-induced ORN.