Conservative Laryngectomies

Conservation laryngeal surgery is an increasingly available alternative for treatment of laryngeal cancer. In addition to the traditional techniques of vertical partial laryngectomy (hemilaryngectomy) and supraglottic laryngectomy, new techniques are now in practice that extend the indications to a far greater number of patients.

The surgeons are able to maintain physiological functions of larynx namely speech, respiration and swallowing without compromising the loco-regional control of cancer in comparison to the more radical treatment modalities. A large number of organ preservation surgeries are available to the surgeon; however, careful assessment of the stage of the cancer and selection of the patient is paramount to a successful outcome.

Four Basic Principles

• Must know extent of tumor
• Cricoarytenoid unit is basic functional unit of larynx
• Resection of normal tissue is necessary
• Must consent patient for total laryngectomy