One hundred and ten cases of carcinoma of the larynx and laryngopharynx have been retrospectively analysed for the incidence and etiological factors for the fistula formation following radical surgery. The fistulae occurred significantly more often in radiation failed salvage surgery group than in cases undergoing primary surgery. Of 54 cases in the former group, 40 (74.5 percent) developed pharyngeal fistulae, 24 of these healed spontaneously within two months, whereas, 14 cases required subsequent surgical repair. However, of 54 cases undergoing primary surgery, only 9 (16 percent) developed pharyngeal fistulae, all of which healed spontaneously.