Vocal function following carbon dioxide laser surgery for glottic carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Oncology
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Glottic T1a carcinoma is a common early-stage laryngeal cancer.
• Treatment options include laser surgery and radiotherapy, each with potential impacts on vocal function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare vocal function outcomes in patients treated for glottic T1a carcinoma via laser surgery versus radiotherapy.
• To evaluate the long-term effects of these treatments on voice quality and acoustic parameters.

Main Methods:

• Vocal function was assessed in 17 patients post-laser surgery and 14 patients post-radiotherapy.
• Evaluations included subjective assessment of hoarseness and objective stroboscopic examination.
• Key acoustic parameters such as phonation time, airflow rate, and frequency/intensity ranges were measured.

Main Results:

• Hoarseness, characterized as rough and breathy, was more frequent after laser surgery.
• Stroboscopic findings revealed incomplete glottal closure and reduced vocal fold vibration post-laser surgery.
• No significant differences were observed in maximum phonation time, airflow rate, or vocal intensity/frequency ranges between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Vocal function for conversational voice is largely similar between patients treated with laser surgery and radiotherapy for glottic T1a carcinoma.
• While laser surgery may lead to a higher incidence of mild hoarseness, functional voice outcomes are comparable.
• Both treatment modalities offer viable options for preserving conversational voice quality.