[Total glossectomy with laryngectomy]

Because local control of locally advanced cancer of base of tongue and larynx managed with combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy is poor, we proposed total glossectomy with total laryngectomy. Twenty-one patients underwent this operation over a period of 8 years. It was a salvage surgery for 15 patients, and an up-front surgery for the 6 others. Postoperative complications occurred in ten patients, and three patients died in the postoperative period. Mean total duration of hospitalisation was 40 days. Oral feeding could be achieved in 14 patients (mean delay: 46 days), but satisfactory oesophageal voice has never been obtained. We can conclude from the analysis of this series that total glossectomy with total laryngectomy is a heavy surgery, which leads to frequent complications, severe functional sequellae, and poor survival. However, control of pain can be obtained, that justifying this heavy procedure. We recommend that patients and relatives should be fully informed about the consequences of surgery before final decision.