Epiglottoplasty technique in endoscopic partial laryngectomy

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Oncology
• Laser Surgery

Background:

• Endoscopic laser surgery is advantageous for laryngeal cancer resection, minimizing functional deficits.
• Partial epiglottis resection during this surgery often leaves a raw surface without reconstruction.
• This can negatively impact postoperative swallowing function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel endoscopic surgical technique for reconstructing the epiglottis after partial resection.
• To evaluate the efficacy of this technique in restoring preoperative anatomy and improving swallowing.

Main Methods:

• A surgical technique involving endoscopic suturing of the resected epiglottis edge to the tongue base was developed.
• This creates a neoepiglottis and reconstructs the vallecula, aiming to restore natural anatomy.
• The technique was applied following partial epiglottis resection in laryngeal cancer surgery.

Main Results:

• The described technique successfully created a neoepiglottis and reconstructed the vallecula.
• Postoperative anatomy closely resembled the preoperative state.
• Patients experienced improved swallowing function after the procedure.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic epiglottis reconstruction following partial resection is feasible and effective.
• Suturing the epiglottis to the tongue base restores anatomy and improves swallowing.
• This technique enhances the functional outcomes of endoscopic laser surgery for laryngeal cancer.