Detection of deglutition disorders after reconstructive laryngectomy. Clinical and radiological evaluations

Subtotal reconstructive laryngectomy is an appropriate surgical procedure for intralaryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. After this surgery the functions of the larynx are greatly modified. These functions may be retained if at least one cricoaryténoid is preserved with good function. The aim of our study was to determine the recovery of swallowing in the late postoperative period and to establish the possible causes of dysphagia. 34 patients previously submitted to reconstructive laryngectomy were studied by clinical and endoscopical evaluation as well as videofluoroscopic examination. The results of our study confirm what has been reported by other authors, that is that the sphincter function greatly altered in the early postoperative period, is progressively restored, especially when both arytenoids are preserved. Videofluoroscopic examination frequently showed the asymptomatic false passage of liquid boluses.