Name of the Procedure:

Suture Pharynx for Wound or Injury Common name(s): Pharyngeal Suturing, Throat Stitching Technical/Medical term: Suture of Pharyngeal Laceration

Summary

A suture pharynx procedure involves stitching up wounds or injuries in the pharynx, which is the part of the throat behind the mouth and nasal cavity.

Purpose

The procedure addresses wounds or lacerations in the pharynx caused by trauma or surgical complications. The goal is to close the wound, prevent infection, and restore normal function and structure to the pharyngeal area.

Indications

• Trauma or injury to the pharynx (e.g., from sharp objects, accidents).
• Surgical complications leading to pharyngeal lacerations.
• Symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, bleeding, and pain in the throat.
• Patients in generally good health without contraindications for minor surgery.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustment or discontinuation of certain medications, especially blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests such as imaging (CT scan or X-ray) to assess the extent of the injury.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given local or general anesthesia to ensure comfort.
2. The surgeon cleans the wound area thoroughly to reduce infection risk.
3. Using specialized surgical tools, the surgeon carefully sutures the wound in the pharynx, ensuring proper alignment and closure.
4. Dissolvable stitches are often used to avoid the need for removal.
5. The area is checked for any bleeding or complications before concluding the procedure.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the injury.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon (usually an ENT specialist or general surgeon)
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Surgical nurse or technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the suture site.
• Bleeding or hematoma formation.
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing post-procedure.
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia.
• Rare complications such as persistent pharyngeal fistula.

Benefits

• Successful wound closure and healing of the pharyngeal injury.
• Prevention of infection and other complications.
• Restoration of normal swallowing and breathing functions.
• Most benefits are realized within a few weeks post-procedure.

Recovery

• Patients may need to stay in the hospital for observation for a few hours or overnight.
• Instructions include soft or liquid diet for a few days, avoiding strenuous activities, and taking prescribed medications for pain and infection prevention.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove non-dissolvable stitches if used.
• Full recovery typically occurs within 1-2 weeks.

Alternatives

• Conservative management with antibiotics and wound care (suitable for minor injuries).
• Endoscopic repair for certain types of injuries.
• Each alternative has its own benefits and limitations, such as longer recovery period or incomplete wound closure.

Patient Experience

• Patients will be under anesthesia, so should feel no pain during the procedure.
• Post-operative discomfort, sore throat, and mild pain are common but manageable with medications.
• Instructions for rest and diet will aid in a smooth recovery process with emphasis on hydration and a gradual return to normal activities.