[Partial surgery in cancer of the upper respiratory and digestive tracts]

Partial or functional surgery for cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract essentially concerns the larynx and the pharyngolaryngeal area. The aim of this surgery is to preserve voice and deglutition. Therefore fundamental anatomical structures such as the cricoid cartilage or at least one arytenoid cartilage must be spared, pointing the limitations of the techniques. Based on these principles, many authors have divided partial surgical procedures ranging from the simplest (cordectomy) to reconstruction on near-total laryngectomy. Cancers of the hypopharynx can benefit from similar techniques always founded on reconstruction by muscle and aponeurosis or by a free flap. Carcinologic results after partial surgery for cancer of upper aerodigestive tract are better than those obtained after total laryngectomy. This fact could be explained by the nature of these cancers that are limited. The carcinologic and functional success of this surgery needs a precise clinical indication and a perfect approach of the various surgical techniques.