Neoglottic reconstruction following total laryngectomy. A reappraisal

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the problems and complications which have resulted from neoglottic reconstruction at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. It has been performed as a primary procedure at the time of laryngectomy of 50 patients. Over 40% of these patients have required a second operative procedure to control major complications of their neoglottis. Aspiration is a nearly constant feature of the procedure, and a significant number of patients do not tolerate it well. Radiation therapy does not appear to increase the number of problems, but the complications are more severe when they do occur, and they are more difficult to control. The indications for surgical neoglottic reconstruction cannot be extended beyond those tumors which are within the confines of the larynx without an increased incidence of major complications. Other relative contraindications to this surgery are poor patient pulmonary reserve, reflux esophageal incompetence, and a "hyperactive" gag reflex. Nine patients with prior treatment which included a total laryngectomy underwent secondary neoglottic reconstruction. In our experience, all have had significant aspiration. About one half of these patients developed speech. The procedure of neoglottic reconstruction must be reviewed critically prior to popular introduction into the surgical armamentarium. A plea for careful study by a small number of experienced surgeons is now in order.