Persistent Oral Antral Fistulas

Abstract

Oral antral fistulas that have been already subjected to previous attempts at closure have been difficult to treat. Gold foil, bony plugs, and other materials have been used for many years to close these fistulas. Because of all of the various techniques and materials used in this procedure, it has been vexing to evaluate their efficacy. Although the persistent fistula is a rare entity, the surgeons faced with treating this condition must understand the principles of flap closure. In six cases in which multiple attempts at oral antral fistula closure had failed, we used either bilateral or unilateral palatal flaps based on the posterior palatine artery. The patients have been followed up for ten years after surgery and can wear dentures if indicated. There has not been any recurrent fistulization in any of these cases.