Larynx Cancer Treatment

Larynx cancer, also known as laryngeal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the larynx, which is commonly referred to as the voice box. The larynx plays a crucial role in breathing, sound production, and protecting the airway during swallowing. Larynx cancer surgery is a primary treatment option, especially for early-stage tumors, and aims to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving as much laryngeal function as possible. In this comprehensive overview, we will discuss larynx cancer surgery, its goals, techniques, considerations, and potential outcomes.

1. Cordectomy: In early-stage glottic cancers (tumors limited to the vocal cords), a cordectomy may be performed. During this surgery, only the affected vocal cord(s) are removed while preserving the rest of the larynx. This is usually done endoscopically. 
2. Supraglottic Laryngectomy: This procedure involves removing the epiglottis, false vocal cords, and a portion of the arytenoid cartilage. Supraglottic laryngectomy is typically performed for supraglottic cancers (tumors in the upper portion of the larynx above the vocal cords) that have not spread beyond this region.
3. Hemilaryngectomy: Hemilaryngectomy involves removing one side of the larynx, including one vocal cord, one arytenoid cartilage, and a portion of the thyroid cartilage. It is used for more extensive supraglottic tumors or early-stage glottic cancers that involve one side of the larynx.
4. Total Laryngectomy: Total laryngectomy is the most extensive surgery and involves removing the entire larynx. The trachea is then rerouted to an opening in the neck (stoma) to create a new airway. This surgery is considered when the cancer involves both vocal cords, the epiglottis, or the subglottic region, or when other surgical options are not feasible.

1. Preservation Laryngeal Surgery:

Whenever possible, surgeons aim to perform organ-preservation surgery to maintain vocal function and quality of life. Techniques such as transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) and transoral robotic surgery (TORS) allow the removal of tumors through the mouth without external incisions. These minimally invasive approaches can be used for select early-stage glottic and supraglottic cancers.

1. Neck Dissection:

During larynx cancer surgery, the surgeon may perform a neck dissection to remove and examine lymph nodes in the neck for signs of cancer spread. This step is crucial for accurate staging and helps guide further treatment decisions.

1. Reconstruction:

Following larynx cancer surgery, reconstruction may be necessary to restore swallowing and speech function. Various techniques can be employed, including tissue grafts and microvascular free tissue transfer, where tissue is taken from another part of the body and transferred to the throat.

1. Tracheostomy and Voice Restoration:

In cases where the entire larynx is removed (total laryngectomy), a tracheostomy is performed to create an opening in the neck to breathe. Voice restoration methods, such as an artificial voice box (electrolarynx), esophageal speech, or surgical voice restoration (neoglottis), are available to help patients communicate after total laryngectomy.

1. Adjuvant Therapies:

In some cases, larynx cancer surgery may be followed by adjuvant therapies to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence or to target any remaining cancer cells. Adjuvant therapies can include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of both.

1. Post-Surgery Recovery:

Recovery after larynx cancer surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s overall health. Swallowing and speech rehabilitation are critical aspects of post-surgery recovery and are typically addressed through a multidisciplinary team approach involving speech therapists and other specialists.

1. Potential Complications:

As with any major surgery, larynx cancer surgery carries potential risks and complications, such as bleeding, infection, damage to nearby structures, and changes in speech or swallowing function. However, with advancements in surgical techniques and post-operative care, the risk of complications is minimized.

1. Psychological and Emotional Support:

A cancer diagnosis and the prospect of undergoing major surgery can be emotionally challenging for patients and their families. Access to psychological support and counseling services is essential to help individuals cope with the emotional impact of their diagnosis and treatment.

1. Long-term Follow-up:

Regular follow-up visits with the medical team are crucial to monitor the patient’s recovery, assess speech and swallowing function, and detect any signs of cancer recurrence. Ongoing support and rehabilitation may be necessary to address any long-term effects of the surgery.

larynx cancer surgery is a critical treatment option for laryngeal cancer, with the primary goal of removing the cancerous tissue while preserving vital laryngeal functions. The specific surgical approach depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and functional goals. Preservation laryngeal surgery techniques are used whenever possible to maintain vocal function and quality of life. Adjuvant therapies may be recommended in certain cases to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Close monitoring, rehabilitation, and emotional support are essential components of the comprehensive care provided to patients undergoing larynx cancer surgery.

Our Centre aims at providing the highest level of care as per international standards. Our team focuses not only on cure but to achieve the best outcomes as well as provide quality rehabilitation of the patient so that he can live a near normal life with dignity.

We provide the best healthcare facilities for Larynx Cancer patients. Our multispecialty clinics are situated in the following locations: