Open partial or transoral laryngectomy - total laryngectomy today

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Total laryngectomy, first performed in 1873, is a cornerstone treatment for advanced laryngeal cancer.
• Surgical techniques, postoperative care, and rehabilitation have significantly improved over 150 years.
• Organ-preserving treatments like radiochemotherapy are now common, but total laryngectomy remains essential for specific cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical evolution and development of total laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer.
• To examine the current role and efficacy of total laryngectomy.
• To compare total laryngectomy with alternative treatments such as partial laryngectomy and organ preservation protocols.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of historical and contemporary studies on total laryngectomy.
• Comparative analysis of surgical outcomes and patient quality of life.
• Evaluation of treatment protocols for advanced laryngeal cancer.

Main Results:

• Total laryngectomy has evolved considerably, enhancing survival rates and patient quality of life.
• Despite the rise of organ-preserving therapies, total laryngectomy remains a viable and necessary option for advanced or refractory laryngeal cancer.
• The procedure's long-term efficacy and role in multimodal treatment strategies are well-established.

Conclusions:

• Total laryngectomy continues to be a critical surgical intervention for advanced laryngeal cancer.
• Ongoing advancements ensure its place in the treatment paradigm, offering hope for improved patient outcomes.
• Comparative analysis supports its use alongside or as an alternative to organ preservation methods.