Functional restoration after subtotal glossectomy and laryngectomy

Extensive resection of carcinoma that involves the tongue base and supraglottic larynx is accompanied by significant potential morbidity and mortality. This is often indicated by poor rates of cure and the limited palliation afforded by radiotherapy alone. Removal of a significant portion of the posterior tongue frequently results in intractable aspiration. Techniques in reconstruction of the oropharyngeal defect and tongue base have included primary closure, random flaps, and myocutaneous flaps. Each of these techniques has been successful, to some degree, in resurfacing pharyngeal defects. However, the functional results in regard to deglutition are less than satisfactory as a result of aspiration. Frequently, simultaneous or delayed total laryngectomy is performed to deal with the pulmonary complications. Various types of laryngoplasty do not uniformly correct the problems of aspiration and deglutition associated with subtotal glossectomy. Our experience includes eight patients who had advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue base, vallecula, and the supraglottic larynx. All patients underwent partial or subtotal glossectomy and laryngectomy. The mucosal defect was reconstructed with pectoralis myocutaneous flap. In order to reestablish voice, a primary tracheopharyngeal shunt was created with the use of a portion of cricoid and upper trachea. The majority of these patients have had successful rehabilitation of deglutition, mastication, and speech.