Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 24, 2026
Computer-Aided Three-Dimensional Visualization in the Treatment of Locally Advanced Thyroid Cancer
Published on: June 9, 2023
Well-differentiated thyroid cancer with aerodigestive tract invasion: Long-term control and functional outcomes
Shirley Y Su1, Zvonimir L Milas2, Neel Bhatt3
1Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
Background:
Well-differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC) invading the aerodigestive tract is an uncommon entity associated with significant morbidity and reduced survival.
Methods:
We reviewed the surgical treatment, oncologic control, and functional outcomes of 69 consecutive patients with WDTC invading the upper aerodigestive tract.
Results:
Complete tumor excision with negative margins was achieved in 62% of patients. Tracheostomy dependence (27%) and permanent hypoparathyroidism (49%) were present or the result of surgery. Seventy-one percent of patients ate a regular diet, 59% had normal speech, and the majority (62%) reported normal activities of daily living. The local, regional, and distant recurrence was 1%, 14%, and 23%, respectively. The 5-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) was 71% and 45%, respectively.
Conclusion:
Surgical resection and appropriate adjuvant treatment can achieve excellent locoregional control while preserving function and quality of life. Long-term survival is limited by the high incidence of distant metastasis.
