Voice quality after narrow-margin laser cordectomy compared with laryngeal irradiation

Voice quality remains the issue often used to support preference for radiotherapy in treatment of early glottic cancer. We therefore conducted a perceptual voice study in 2 groups, one treated with radiotherapy for malignant disease and the other with narrow-margin laser cordectomy for either malignant or extensive benign lesions. Sequential patients, 12 treated with radiotherapy and 30 with CO(2) laser excision, were included. Voice samples were recorded before and at intervals after surgery. Ratings of validated judges were used for statistical analysis of various voice characteristics at each time point. Voice deteriorated temporarily after surgery as compared with the radiated group; however, at 6 and 24 months no significant differences were found between the groups. Preferential use of narrow-margin laser cordectomy for appropriate early glottic tumors can be supported not only for oncologic reasons but also on the basis of voice results, cost, and efficiency considerations.