Resultados funcionales de pacientes tratados con faringolaringectomía y reconstrucción faríngea con colgajo pediculado / Functional Outcomes using pedicle flap reconstruction approach after pharyngolaryngectomy in laryngeal carcinoma patients

INTRODUCCIÓN: La laringectomía total es el tratamiento de elección del cáncer de laringe avanzado, requiriendo en ocasiones asociar una resección parcial o total de la faringe para su manejo. El defecto faríngeo, puede repararse con colgajos libres o pediculados, teniendo estos últimos la ventaja de ser simples, confiables y resistentes a la radioterapia. OBJETIVO: Presentar los resultados funcionales de una serie de pacientes tratados con faringolaringectomía y reconstrucción faríngea con colgajo pediculado. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Se revisaron registros de pacientes con laringectomía total más faringectomía parcial y reconstrucción con colgajo pediculado en el Hospital Regional de Talca entre 2009 y 2017, encontrando 6 casos de los cuales 4 se encontraron vivos al momento de iniciar el estudio. Se realizó videofluoroscopía para evaluar deglución, presencia de estenosis y/o fístulas, además, de evaluación nutricional y encuesta de calidad de vida. RESULTADOS: En el estudio de la deglución por fluoroscopía, todos los pacientes presentaron escasa retención del material de contraste en la hipofaringe y esófago cervical, lo cual está en relación con cambios morfológicos posquirúrgicos, sin afectar significativamente el mecanismo deglutorio. Todos los pacientes se encontraron eutróficos en su evaluación nutricional y sin evidencias de alteración de su calidad de vida secundaria a la deglución. CONCLUSIONES: La reconstrucción faríngea parcial con colgajo pediculado en pacientes con laringectomías totales asociadas a faringectomía parcial permite una deglución adecuada y sin disfagia, con un estado nutricional eutrófico.

INTRODUCTION: Total laryngectomy is the treatment of choice for advanced laryngeal cancer and after radiotherapy failure. In patients with pharyngeal invasion, it is associated with total or partial pharyngectomy, wich defect can be repaired with free or pedicle flaps. AIM: To present a brief series of pedicle flap reconstruction approach after pharyngolaryngectomy in laryngeal carcinoma patients and functional outcomes MATERIALS AND METHOD: We looked at laryngeal cancer patient records who were treated with total laryngectomy with partial pharyngectomy and pharyngeal reconstruction with pedicle flap at "Hospital Regional de Talca" between the years 2009 and 2017, finding 6 cases, 4 of which were alive at the beginning of the study. We analized videoflourocopy swallow studies to assess mechanisms of deglutition, and presence of stenosis or fistulas. We also performed a nutritional state assessment and a quality of life questionnaire. RESULTS: During videodeglutition study, the 4 patients showed minimal contrast swallow delay at hypopharynx and cervical esophagus. All the patients were found eutrophic in their nutritional assessment and with no significant evidence of quality of life disturbances secondary to deglutition state. CONCLUSIONS: Partial pharyngeal reconstruction using pedicle flaps in patients who underwent total laryngectomy with partial pharyngectomy allows to maintain an adequate deglutition without dysphagia, as well as a good nutritional state.

Surgically-Treated Locoregionally Advanced Hypopharyngeal Cancer: Outcomes

Abstract Introduction Hypopharyngeal tumors are head and neck malignancies associated with a great mortality rate, and the treatment of advanced lesions constitutes a challenging problem. Pharyngolaryngectomy continues to be the gold standard treatment modality for locally-advanced diseases, and it is currently used as the primary treatment or in cases of relapse after an organ preservation strategy. Objective This study aims to compare the survival rates of patients with advanced hypopharyngeal tumors treated with pharyngolaryngectomy as a primary or salvage option, and identify possible prognostic factors. Methods All patients with advanced hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas who performed pharyngolaryngectomy between 2007 and 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. Results A total of 87 patients fulfilled the aforementioned criteria, and the sample had a mean age of 57.2 years and a male predominance of 43:1. The tumors were located in the pyriform sinus walls (81 tumors), in the posterior pharyngeal wall (4 tumors) and in the postcricoid region (2 tumors). A total of 60 patients underwent surgery as the primary treatment option, and 27 were submitted to salvage pharyngolaryngectomy after a previous treatment with chemoradiotherapy or radiotherapy. The 5-year overall survival was of 25.9%, the 5-year disease-free survival was of 24.2%, and the disease-specific survival was of 29.5%. Conclusion The patients treated with pharyngolaryngectomy as the primary option revealed a better 5-year-disease free survival than the patients who underwent the salvage surgery (35.8% versus 11.7% respectively; p< 0.05). The histopathological criteria of capsular rupture of the lymph nodes (30.1% versus 19.8% respectively for the primary and salvage groups; p< 0.05) and vascular invasion (30.5% versus 22.5% respectively; p< 0.05) reduced the 5-year disease-free survival. Pharyngolaryngectomy as the primary intent revealed a lower local recurrence rate than the salvage surgery (40.6% versus 83.3% respectively; p< 0.05).

Thyroid gland invasion in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx / Invasão da glândula tireoide no carcinoma espinocelular avançado de laringe e hipofaringe

Abstract Introduction: Squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx has the potential to invade the thyroid gland. Despite this risk, the proposition of either partial or total thyroidectomy as part of the surgical treatment of all such cases remains controversial. Objectives: To evaluate the frequency of invasion of the thyroid gland in patients with advanced laryngeal or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma submitted to total laryngectomy or pharyngolaryngectomy and thyroidectomy; to determine whether clinic-pathological characteristics can predict glandular involvement. Methods: A retrospective case series with chart review, from January 1998 to July 2013, was undertaken in a tertiary care university medical center. An inception cohort of 83 patients with larynx/hypopharynx squamous cell carcinoma was considered. All patients had advanced stage disease (clinically T3-T4) and underwent total laryngectomy or total pharyngolaryngectomy in association with thyroidectomy. Adjuvant therapy was indicated when tumor or neck conditions required. Frequency of thyroid cartilage invasion was calculated; univariate and multivariate analysis of demographic, clinical and pathological characteristics associated with cartilage invasion were performed. Results: The overall frequency of invasion of the thyroid gland was 18.1%. Glandular involvement was associated with invasion of the following structures: anterior commissure (odds ratio = 5.13; 95% confidence interval 1.07-24.5), subglottis (odds ratio = 12.44; 95% confidence interval 1.55-100.00) and cricoid cartilage (odds ratio = 15.95; 95% confidence interval 4.23-60.11). Conclusions: Invasion of the thyroid gland is uncommon in the context of laryngopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Clinical and pathological features such as invasion of the anterior commissure, subglottis and cricoid cartilage are more associated with glandular invasion.

Resumo Introdução O carcinoma espinocelular de laringe e hipofaringe tem potencial para invadir a glândula tireoide. Apesar desse risco, a proposição de tireoidectomia parcial ou total como parte do tratamento cirúrgico de todos esses casos permanece controversa. Objetivos Avaliar a frequência de invasão da glândula tireoide em pacientes com carcinoma espinocelular avançado de laringe ou hipofaringe submetidos a laringectomia total ou faringolaringectomia e tireoidectomia; determinar se características clínico‐patológicas podem prever o envolvimento glandular. Método Uma série de casos retrospectivos com revisão de prontuários, entre janeiro de 1998 e julho de 2013, foi feita em um centro médico universitário de cuidados terciários. Uma coorte inicial de 83 pacientes com carcinoma espinocelular de laringe/hipofaringe foi considerada. Todos os pacientes tinham doença em estágio avançado (clinicamente T3‐T4) e foram submetidos a laringectomia total ou faringolaringectomia em associação com tireoidectomia. Foi indicada terapia adjuvante quando o tumor ou as condições do pescoço exigiram. A frequência de invasão de cartilagem da tireoide foi calculada; análises univariada e multivariada das características demográficas, clínicas e patológicas associadas à invasão de cartilagem foram feitas. Resultados A frequência global de invasão da glândula tireoide foi de 18,1%. O envolvimento glandular foi associado à invasão das seguintes estruturas: comissura anterior (odds ratio = 5,13; intervalo de confiança 95%, 1,07‐24,5), subglote (odds ratio = 12,44; intervalo de confiança 95%, 1,55‐100,00) e cartilagem cricoide (odds ratio = 15,95; intervalo de confiança 95%, 4,23‐60,11). Conclusões A invasão da glândula tireoide é rara no contexto de carcinoma espinocelular laringofaríngeo. As características clínicas e patológicas, como a invasão da comissura anterior, subglote e cartilagem cricoide, estão mais associadas a invasão glandular.

Definitive Chemoradiotherapy Versus Surgery Followed by Adjuvant Radiotherapy in Resectable Stage III/IV Hypopharyngeal Cancer / Journal of the Korean Cancer Association, 대한암학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to compare the treatment outcomes for locally advanced resectable hypopharyngeal cancer between organ-preserving chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and surgery followed by radiotherapy (SRT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 91 patients with stage III/IV hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiotherapy (RT). In the CRT group (n=34), 18 patients were treated with concurrent CRT and 16 patients with induction chemotherapy plus concurrent CRT. In the SRT group (n=57), six patients were treated with total laryngopharyngectomy, 34 patients with total laryngectomy (TL) and partial pharyngectomy (PP), and 17 patients with PP, which were followed by adjuvant radiotherapy (n=41) or CRT (n=16). The median RT dose was 70 Gy for CRT and 59.4 Gy for SRT. RESULTS: Five-year local control (84.1% vs. 90.9%), and disease-free survival (DFS, 51.0% vs. 52.7%) and overall survival (OS, 58.6% vs. 56.6%) showed no significant difference between the CRT and SRT groups. The functional larynx-preservation rate was higher in the CRT group (88.2% vs. 29.8%). Treatment-related toxicity, requiring surgical intervention, occurred more frequently in the SRT group (37% vs. 12%). In the SRT group, TL resulted in a significantly higher DFS than larynx-sparing surgery (63.9% vs. 26.5%, p=0.027). Treatment outcome of the SRT group improved when only patients with TL were considered (n=40); however, 5-year OS (67.1% vs. 58.6%, p=0.830) and DFS (63.9% vs. 51.0%, p=0.490) did not improve significantly when compared to the CRT group. CONCLUSION: Organ preserving CRT provided a treatment outcome that is comparable to SRT for locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer, while offering an opportunity for functional larynx-preservation and reduced treatment-related toxicity.

Predictors of Thyroid Gland Involvement in Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

PURPOSE: Decision to perform concurrent ipsilateral thyroidectomy on patients with hypopharyngeal cancer is important, and unnecessary thyroidectomy should be avoided if oncologically feasible. We hypothesized that concurrent ipsilateral thyroidectomy is not routinely required to prevent occult metastasis. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of histological thyroid invasion in patients with hypopharyngeal cancer, and to refine the indications for prophylactic ipsilateral thyroidectomy in patients with hypopharyngeal cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of the medical records from the Department of Otolaryngology at Yonsei University College of Medicine was conducted from January 1994 to December 2009. A total of 49 patients underwent laryngopharyngectomy with thyroidectomy as a primary treatment of hypopharyngeal cancer. RESULTS: The incidence of thyroid gland involvement was 10.2%. The most common route of invasion was direct extension through the thyroid cartilage. Thyroid cartilage invasion (p=0.034) was the most significant factor associated with thyroid invasion. Disease-specific survival at 5 years was lower in patients with than without thyroid gland invasion (26.7% vs. 55.2%, respectively; p=0.032). Disease-free survival at 5 years was also lower in patients with than without thyroid gland invasion (20.0% vs. 52.1%, respectively; p=0.024). CONCLUSION: Ipsilateral thyroidectomy in combination with total laryngopharyngectomy is indicated when invasion of the thyroid cartilage is suspected in patients with hypopharyngeal cancer.

Prognostic factors affecting results of comprehensive treatment of hypopharyngeal carcinoma / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the efficacy of surgery followed by adjuvant radiotherapy and the prognostic factors affecting the results of treatment in hypopharyngeal carcinoma.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A retrospective review of 149 patients with hypopharyngeal carcinoma that received surgical treatment from Jun 2003 to Jun 2010 was accomplished. In the 149 patients, the site of origin were pyriform sinus (n = 121), posterior pharyngeal wall (n = 21) and postcricoid (n = 7). According to UICC 2002 criteria, there were 3 in stage I, 15 in stage II, 29 in stage III and 102 in stage IV. Surgical methods for primary tumor were: pyriform sinus resection or posterior pharyngeal wall resection in 22 cases, partial pharyngectomy and partial laryngectomy in 29 cases, partial pharyngectomy and total laryngectomy in 67 cases, total pharyngectomy and total laryngectomy in 16 cases, total pharyngolaryngectomy and partial esophagus resection in 12 cases, and total esophagus resection in 3 cases. All the patients received elective and/or radical neck dissection. Unilateral or bilateral thyroid lobectomy was performed in 98 cases. Eighty-seven patients received intensity modulation radiated therapy (IMRT) postoperatively in the cancer center of Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University. Individualized adjustment of the radiation field was made according to the surgical condition. Forty-nine cases received radiotherapy in other hospitals (dose 50-70 Gy). Laryngeal function was restored in 51 patients (34.2%). The risk clinicopathological factors of survival and the causes of death were analyzed.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The survival rate was calculated with Kaplan-Meier method. The overall 3- and 5- year survival rates were 47.7% and 38.7%, respectively. There were no significant differences in 3-year survival between T1-2 and T3-4 groups, N0 and N+ groups, stage I-II and III-IV groups, laryngeal function preserved and unpreserved groups. The overall 3 years survival rate of patients received surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy was higher than those just received surgery alone (χ² = 6.851, P < 0.05). The 3-year survival rate in patients treated in comprehensive treatment group has showed a good trend, although still no statistical significance (χ² = 0.176, P > 0.05). The cause of death in 86 patients, including regional lymph nodes recurrence in 25 cases (29.1%). Of them, one was stoma recurrence and 9 were retropharyngeal lymph nodes metastasis; distant metastasis in 19 cases (22.1%); local recurrence in 13 cases, local or regional recurrence with distant metastasis in 8 cases (9.3%), and second primary cancer in 6 cases (7.0%).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The overall prognosis of hypopharyngeal carcinoma was poor and dismal. In accordance with specific conditions of surgery, active adjustment of the personalized protocol of IMRT was the key of improving the efficacy of hypopharyngeal carcinoma.</p>

Outcomes of Salvage Surgery after Concurrent Chemoradiation for Advanced Hypopharyngeal Cancer / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We evaluated treatment outcomes of patients with advanced hypopharyngeal cancer for whom surgical salvage was attempted after primary concomitant chemoradiation therapy (CRT) had failed as a treatment. The pre-salvage factors were assess-ed to predict the prognosis of salvage surgery. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: A retrospective analysis was conducted from 1997 to 2006 for 22 patients with stage III-IV hypopharyngeal cancer who had undergone salvage surgery after local and/or regional CRT failures with no distant metastasis. RESULTS: Larynx-sacrificing pharyngectomy was performed in 12 (54.5%) of all patients. Postoperative complications occurred in 9 (40.9%), and carotid artery blowout occurred in two of these patients. After salvage surgery, the 2-year and 5-year overall survival rates were 52.8% and 28.9%, respectively. The 2-year disease specific survival rate and locoregional control rate were 45.5% and 60.0%, respectively. The initial N2-3 stage (p=0.038) and the concurrent local and regional failures (p=0.035) were independent predictors for decreased survival after salvage surgery. Two-year overall survival rates for patients with 2, 1, or none of these predictive factors were 23.3%, 66.7%, and 80.0%, respectively (p=0.027). CONCLUSION: Although salvage surgery after CRT has postoperative complications and unfavorable larynx preservation, it can be considered as a viable option with acceptable oncologic outcomes for advanced hypopharyngeal cancer. The initial N2-3 stage and concurrent local and regional failures were independent predictors that can stratify patients into distinct prognostic groups for postsalvage survival.

Operation of hypopharyngeal carcinoma with restrained vocal cord motility / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the feasibility of laryngeal function preservation in surgical treatment of hypopharyngeal carcinoma with restrained vocal cord motility.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Twenty-six cases of hypopharyngeal carcinoma treated with conservative hypopharyngectomy were retrospectively analyzed. Partial resection of pyriform sinus and partial laryngectomy were performed. Suturing the remaining hypopharyngeal mucosa was used to cove the wound of hypopharynx in 5 cases, epiglottis complex flap in 21 cases. All patients received postoperative radiotherapy.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The overall 3- and 5-year survival rates were 61.4% and 50.8% respectively. 76.9% (20/26) patients have laryngeal functions (voice, respiration and deglutition) completely restored and 23.1% (6/26) partially restored (voice and deglutition).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>To improve the quality of life of the cases, the preservative surgery is feasible for the selected hypopharyngeal carcinoma cases with restrained vocal cord motility.</p>

Surgery for T4 hypopharyngeal cancer and reconstruction after hypopharyngo-oesphagectomy / 中华肿瘤杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the surgical treatment of hypopharyngeal and cervical esophageal cancers and the ways of reconstruction after hypopharyngo-oesphagectomy, and to evaluate their efficacy.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Twenty five patients with cancer of the laryngopharynx and cervical esophagus treated in our department between 1995 and 2007 were included in this study. Their clinical data were restrspectively analyzed. Among them, 17 cases had the tumor originated from the pyriform sinus, 3 of the posterior pharyngeal wall and 5 of the postcricoid region. Acording to the 2002 UICC criteria, all the tumors were stage T4, including 9 patients with cN0, 11 with cN1, and 5 with cN2 disease. The pharyngoesophageal defect reconstruction methods were as following: pharyngogastric anastomosis in 7 patients, free jejunal transplantion in 4, laryngotracheal flap in 8, and pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap in 6 patients. All patients were treated with modified and/or selective neck dissection. Among them, 8 cases received pre-operation radiotherapy, 17 received post-operative auxiliary radiotherapy.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>There was no operation death case in this group. All patients were followed up for 3 to 5 years. Three patients died in the first year. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, the 1-year survival rate was 88.0%, 3-year survival rate was 48.0%, and 5-year survival rate was 28.0%.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The use of primary repair of the defects of laryngopharynx and cervical esophagus expands the operative indication for cancers of the laryngopharynx and cervical esophagus, improves the survival rate and life quality of the patients. Regarding the repair method of choice, site of the tumor and size of the defect are the most important factors regarding choice of reconstruction method, while the patients' age and general condiction should also be considered to minimize the complications as more as possible.</p>

Larynx-Preserving Partial Pharyngectomy via Lateral Pharyngotomy for the Treatment of Small (T1~2) Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the oncologic and functional results of larynx-preserving partial pharyngectomy (LPP) via lateral pharyngotomy approach as a primary treatment for small (T1 or T2) hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC). METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of 23 patients who underwent LPP through lateral pharyngotomy approach for small HPSCC at the our department between January 1991 and June 2007. Fourteen (61%) patients had adjuvant postoperative radiotherapy. RESULTS: The 2-years and 5-years disease specific survival rate was 77% and 61%, respectively. Nine patients (39%) had tumor recurrence. The most common pattern of recurrence was isolated distant failure (n=4, 44%) followed by local (n=2, 22%) and loco-regional (n=3, 34%) recurrence. The ultimate cure rate of the primary tumor was 87% (20 of 23). Twenty-two of the 23 patients (95%) could be decannulated, tolerate an oral diet, and had acceptable postoperative phonatory function. CONCLUSION: LPP via lateral pharyngotomy approach appears to be a feasible procedure for selected small HPSCC patients in terms of both oncologic and functional outcomes.

Larynx-Preserving Partial Pharyngectomy via Lateral Pharyngotomy for the Treatment of Small (T1~2) Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the oncologic and functional results of larynx-preserving partial pharyngectomy (LPP) via lateral pharyngotomy approach as a primary treatment for small (T1 or T2) hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC). METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of 23 patients who underwent LPP through lateral pharyngotomy approach for small HPSCC at the our department between January 1991 and June 2007. Fourteen (61%) patients had adjuvant postoperative radiotherapy. RESULTS: The 2-years and 5-years disease specific survival rate was 77% and 61%, respectively. Nine patients (39%) had tumor recurrence. The most common pattern of recurrence was isolated distant failure (n=4, 44%) followed by local (n=2, 22%) and loco-regional (n=3, 34%) recurrence. The ultimate cure rate of the primary tumor was 87% (20 of 23). Twenty-two of the 23 patients (95%) could be decannulated, tolerate an oral diet, and had acceptable postoperative phonatory function. CONCLUSION: LPP via lateral pharyngotomy approach appears to be a feasible procedure for selected small HPSCC patients in terms of both oncologic and functional outcomes.

Faringocoloplastia como reconstrução tardia pós-faringolaringectomia total por carcinoma espinocelular de hipofaringe: relato de caso e revisão da literatura / Pharyngocoloplasty as late reconstruction post-pharyngolaryngectomy by hypopharynx

Introdução: O carcinoma espinocelular de cabeça e pescoço representa cerca de 5% de todas as neoplasias malignas. A localização dessa neoplasia no trato aerodigestivo superior é um fator prognóstico importante, sendo que, na maioria dos casos de hipofaringe, apresentam-se já avançados no momento do diagnóstico. A ressecção cirúrgica, quimioterapia e radioterapia adjuvantes têm grande importância no seu tratamento. Muitos pacientes, com controle loco-regional da doença, beneficiam-se de procedimentos cirúrgicos reparadores e de reconstrução do trânsito intestinal. Relato de caso: Homem, 38 anos, ex-etilista e ex-tabagista, com queixa de disfagia e dispneia rapidamente progressivas, submetido à traqueostomia de urgência por insuficiência respiratória aguda. À investigação, foi diagnosticado um carcinoma espinocelular de supraglote, com extensão para a parede medial do recesso piriforme esquerdo. O paciente foi, então, submetido à faringolaringectomia total, seguida de quimiorradiação. Sem sinais de recidiva tumoral após 12 meses de acompanhamento, foi realizada faringocoloplastia como reconstrução do trânsito intestinal. Encontrase atualmente em acompanhamento ambulatorial sem evidência de recidiva tumoral e satisfeito com o resultado cirúrgico final. Discussão: A reconstrução do trânsito intestinal em pacientes submetidos à faringolaringectomias é indicada para pacientes com controle local da doença e que aceitem o procedimento cirúrgico. A técnica mais utilizada é a interposição de alça de delgado. Porém, o cólon também é utilizado como substituto do esôfago. A escolha da técnica depende fundamentalmente da acurácia técnica do cirurgião e da necessidade de uma longa alça para anastomose entre a faringe e o estômago, com resultados satisfatórios.

Introduction: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma represents about 5% of all malignant tumors. Localization of this neoplasia at the upper aerodigestive tract is an important prognostic factor. In most cases, hypopharynx tumors are at an advanced stage when diagnosed. Surgical resection, as well as alongside chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are essential to the treatment. Many patients with locoregional control of the disease benefit from reparative and reconstructive surgeries of the intestinal transit. Case report: Man, 38 years old, former user of alcohol and tobaco, complaining of rapid progressive dysphagia and dyspnea, submitted to urgent tracheotomy due to acute respiratory failure. At examination, we diagnosed supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma, involving the left pyriform fossa medial wall. The patient underwent a pharyngolaryngectomy, followed by chemoradiation. Without signs of tumor recurrence after a 12-month follow-up, we performed a pharyngocoloplasty with reconstruction of the intestinal transit. At the moment, he is attending for an outpatient follow-up, with no evidences of tumor recurrence, and satisfied with the final surgical outcome. Discussion: The reconstruction of intestinal transit in pharyngolaryngectomy patients is indicated for those with local control of the disease and that accept this surgicalprocedure. The most used technique is the loop interposition of small intestine, but the colon is also used for esophageal replacement. Its choice depends mainly on the technical accuracy of the surgeon, but also on the requirement of a lengthy loop for the anastomosis between pharynx and the stomach, with suitable results.

Swallowing and quality of life after total laryngectomy and pharyngolaryngectomy / Deglutição e qualidade de vida após laringectomia e faringolaringectomia total

Dysphagia can be a consequence of total laryngectomy even in the absence of symptoms and it could indeed directly or indirectly compromise quality of life. AIM: To evaluate the characteristics of swallowing after total laryngectomy and pharyngolaryngectomy with pharyngeal T closure, correlating them with the Quality of Life in Swallowing Disorders questionnaire. METHODS: A prospective evaluation was performed in 28 patients; fifteen undergoing total laryngectomy and thirteen undergoing total pharyngolaryngectomy. Swallowing was evaluated through videofluoroscopy regarding the preparatory, oral and pharyngeal phases of swallowing, and the quality of life related to swallowing questionnaire was employed to measure quality of life. RESULTS: Anatomical and functional changes were observed under videofluoroscopic evaluation. Dysphagia was diagnosed in 18 patients (64.3 percent), being mild in 66.6 percent and moderate/severe in 33.3 percent. The questionnaire indicated good quality of life in almost all scales. Complaints of dysphagia were associated to the burden (p=0.036) and mental health scale (p=0.031). The questionnaire indicated impact on the mental health scale for patients with severe dysphagia (p=0.012). CONCLUSIONS: High incidence of dysphagia was observed in some quality of life assessments, especially of mild degree.

A disfagia pode ser uma das consequências após a laringectomia total mesmo na ausência de sintomas e comprometer direta ou indiretamente a qualidade vida. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as características da deglutição após a laringectomia total e faringolaringectomia com fechamento em T e correlacionar com o questionário Quality of Life in Swallowing Disorders. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo através da avaliação de 28 pacientes, quinze submetidos à laringectomia total e treze à faringolaringectomia. A deglutição foi avaliada através da videofluoroscopia em relação às fases preparatória, oral e faríngea e o questionário de qualidade de vida relacionada à deglutição foi aplicado para mensurar a qualidade de vida. RESULTADOS: Na avaliação videofluoroscópica foram observadas alterações anatômicas e funcionais. A disfagia foi diagnosticada em 18 (64,3 por cento) dos pacientes, sendo 66,6 por cento de grau discreto e 33,3 por cento de grau moderado/severo. O questionário indicou boa qualidade de vida em quase todas as escalas. As queixas de deglutição apresentaram associação com o questionário nas escalas fardo (p=0,036) e saúde mental (p=0,031). O questionário indicou impacto na escala saúde mental para os pacientes com disfagia de grau severo (p=0,012). CONCLUSÃO: Observamos grande incidência de disfagia de grau predominantemente discreto com repercussão em algumas escalas da qualidade de vida.

Treatment and clinical analysis of laryngeal function preserving surgery in hypopharyngeal carcinoma / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the therapeutic effect and the prognosis of the laryngeal function preserving surgery (LFPS) and total laryngectomy in hypopharyngeal carcinoma.@*METHOD@#Ninety-three cases of laryngopharynx carcinoma were retrospectively analyzed from September 1974 to September 2006. Among which 57 cases were primary pyriform sinus cancer, 20 cases were postero-cricoid cancer and 16 cases were postero-pharyngeal wall cancer. 53 cases were treated by LFPS, and 40 cases were treated by total laryngectomy. The treatment effectiveness, complication, survival rate and repair materials were analysed.@*RESULT@#Adopting Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the 3-year survival rates were 69.9% and 5-year survival rates were 43.0%. The 3-year survival rates of LFPS and Non-LFPS were 73.6% and 67.5%, and the 5-year survival rates of LFPS and Non-LFPS were 49.1% and 32. 5%. There was no significant difference between the two groups (chi2 = 2.566, P > 0.05). Single element analysis indicated survival rates concerned with T-stage (chi2 = 9.764, P < 0.05), neck lymphatic transfer (chi2 = 10.472, P < 0.01) and the degree of pathological differentiation (chi2 = 25.894, P < 0.01). Cox regression analysis suggested that T-stage, the degree of pathological differentiation and whether going through the surgical operation were the independent element of the patient's prognosis. There was no significant difference between LFPS and No-LFPS in the neoplasms location, complication, neoplasms residuum and neoplasms recurrence.@*CONCLUSION@#LFPS did not affect the survival rates and LFPS was feasible. LFPS can increase the living quality of laryngopharynx carcinoma patients.

Comprehensive treatment of 352 cases with hypopharyngeal cancer / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To review the experience of different surgical construction methods and comprehensive treatments for hypopharyngeal cancer.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Three hundred and fifty-two cases (According to UICC 2002 criteria, stage I, 3; II, 31; III, 134; IV, 184) with hypopharyngeal cancer were retrospectively reviewed from 1999 to 2005 in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, including 321 males and 31 females. The median age was 58 years old, ranged from 26 to 82 years old. All the tumors originated from the pyriform sinus (272), posterior pharyngeal wall (61), postcricoid area (19). There were no distant metastasis. Two hundred and fourty-one cases were surgically treated with laryngeal functions preserved and 111 cases without laryngeal functions preserved. All the patients received modified neck dissection, including both unilateral (247 patients) and bilateral (105 patients). Pharyngoesophageal defect reconstruction methods in cases with laryngeal functions preserved were: direct suture in 137, pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap in 62, split graft in 2, pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap combined with the split graft in 5, stomach pulling-up in 12, colon interposition in 23 patients. While in cases without laryngeal functions preserved the methods includes: direct suture in 54, laryngotracheal flap in 54 patients, pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap in 7, laryngotracheal flap combined with pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap in 8, stomach pulling-up in 22, colon interposition in 3 patients. All patients received radiotherapy postoperatively (dose 55 - 75 Gy).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The overall 3 and 5 year survival rates were 65.1% (229/352) and 53.6% (142/265), respectively. For stage I, the 5 year survival rate was 3/3, stage II, 80.6%(25/31), stage III, 65.0% (67/103), stage IV, 36.7% (47/128). The 3 and 5 year survival rates in functionally preserved group were 68.0% (164/241) and 59.7% (114/191), respectively, while in non-functionally preserved group were 58.6% (65/111) and 37.8% (28/74), respectively. The cervical lymph node metastasis was found in 239 sides. Pathologic findings showed that well, moderately and lower differentiated squamous cell carcinomas were 84, 163, 105 cases, respectively. Laryngeal functions (voice, respiration and deglutition) were completely restored in 169 patients and partially restored (voice and deglutition) in 72 patients.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Combined surgery and radiotherapy are the best choice for hypopharyngeal cancer. The continuity of the pharyngoesophagus is restored and the laryngeal function is preserved as far as possible. The preservation of laryngeal function and the laryngeal and pharyngeal reconstruction are based on the premise that the tumor was excised completely.</p>

Laryngeal function preserving surgery in hypopharyngeal carcinoma / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the preservation of laryngeal function hypopharyngeal cancer surgery clinical effectiveness and impact of prognostic factors.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A retrospective analysis in September 1974 - July 2003 treated 45 cases of hypopharyngeal cancer surgery retain the clinical treatment of laryngeal function effect. Among them there were 23 cases of original pyriform sinus cancer, 13 cases of post cricoid cancer and 9 cases of postero pharyngeal wall cancer. Two cases of preoperative radiotherapy, radiotherapy volume of 40-50 Gy; after 32 cases of radiotherapy, radiotherapy dose of 60-70 Gy. Analysis of impact on survival in patients with risk factors.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Forty five cases of preservation of laryngeal function after 88.9% who articulate pronunciation ambiguities were mild 11.1%; 23 cases of tracheostomy tube removal, decannulation rate was 51.1%, all can eat into the cape. Nineteen cases of post-operative complications (42.2%); after 20 cases of cervical lymph node metastasis, accounting for 44.4%. Statistics Kaplan-Meier method in patients with the whole group 5-year survival rate was 53.3%. T1 + T2 and T3 + T4 patients after 5-year survival rates were 66.7% and 43.3%; cN0 and cN1, cN2 group survival rates were 65.2% and 46.7%, 28.6%; pathological differentiation of high, medium and low-group survival rates were 62.3%, 42.1% and 30.8%. Single-factor analysis of survival and whether pre-operative cervical lymph node metastasis and the degree of pathological differentiation (chi2 value of 5.297 and 11.556, P value of 0.021 and 0.003). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the availability of pre-operative cervical lymph node metastasis and pathological effects of the degree of differentiation is an independent risk factor for prognosis (chi2 value of 4.365 and 4.600, P value of 0.041 and 0.032, OR value of 1.151 and 0.610).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Preservation of laryngeal function hypopharyngeal cancer surgery for T1, T2 patients with the best surgical procedures, some of T3, T4 advanced hypopharyngeal cancer can also be used to retain the operation of laryngeal function; and preservation of laryngeal function can not affect the prognosis of patients with.</p>

Faringo-laringectomías parciales para el tratamiento del cáncer faringolaríngeo / Partial pharyngolaryngectomies for treatment of pharyngolaryngeal cancer

BACKGROUND: We undertook this study to evaluate the results obtained with conservation therapy of the larynx in patients with laryngopharyngeal epidermoid carcinoma. METHODS: Patients with stages I and II epidermoid cancer of the larynx and pharynx were included. All patients were evaluated endoscopically, functionally, and with cervical tomography. Results of the procedures were evaluated on the basis of oncological control and laryngeal function (voice, swallowing and ventilation). RESULTS: There were 41 male patients with a median age of 55 years. In 32 patients, surgery was the initial treatment and in nine patients as rescue treatment after radiotherapy. In 58.5% the location was glottic, in 22% supraglottic, in 12% glotto-supraglottic and in 7% vallecular and hypopharynx. Subtotal laryngectomy was performed with cricohyoidepiglottopexy in 18 patients, frontolateral in 11, supraglottic in 5, subglottic-epiglottectomy in 3, hemipharyngolaryngectomy in 3, and in one hemiglottectomy. The time until decannulation and removal of nasogastric catheter depended on the type of surgery. One patient (2%) had to be subjected to a rescue laryngectomy due to constant aspiration. This patient demonstrated residual tumor in the sample. Nine patients had some type of complication, the most frequent being wound infection (7.3%). One patient died postoperatively due to sepsis (2.4%), and another patient died due to systemic causes 4 months after the intervention. Median follow-up time is 25 months and no patient has presented tumor recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Voice conservation surgery is an alternative to mutilation of the larynx in patients with locally advanced neoplasms of the larynx with a high risk of recurrence if treated with radiotherapy.

Transoral endoscopic CO2 laser surgery for hypopharynx in experimental animals / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the substantial resection limits of CO2 laser surgery for hypopharynx and the course of wound healing in animals, for the purpose of evaluating the clinic usefulness of transoral CO2 laser surgery in the treatment of selected hypopharyngeal carcinomas.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Twenty-three dogs were randomly assigned to two groups. Group one (11 dogs) received left piriform sinus resection, group two (12 dogs) received the resection of posterior wall of the hypopharynx. Six dogs in group one were killed immediately or 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 d post-operatively. Seven dogs in group two were killed immediately or 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 d post-operatively. The whole larynx and hypopharynx were taken out and the specimens were examined by naked eyes and under microscope. The other 5 dogs in each group were fed until the wound healed, the duration were observed.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All the operations were successful and the results were satisfactory. In group one, the dogs could take food the day after operation; two dogs had slight cough during eating and recovered after five days. In group two, the dogs could take food the next day after operation, eight dogs had slight cough during eating and recovered after ten days. The excision dimension was satisfactory. In group one (resection of the lateral wall of piriform sinus), the size of raw surface was (7.5 +/- 0.8) cm2 (x +/- s) and the healing time was (18.4 +/- 1.5) d. In group two (resection of the posterior wall of the hypopharynx), the wound surface was (7.0 +/- 0.5) cm2 and the healing time was (39.8 +/- 1.9) d. The healing time in group two was significantly longer than that in group one (t = 19.535, P <0. 01). The post-operative healing process were observed, including cellulose membrane coverage, granulation filling and epithelization.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Transoral CO2 laser was suitable for partial hypopharynx resection. Animals can recuperate well with little complications. Although the course of wound healing was delayed, wound surface can recover with good laryngeal and deglutition functions.</p>

Pharyngoesophageal Reconstruction Using Modified Jejunomesenteric Composite Free Flap

PURPOSE: The jejunal free flap is the most standard and reliable procedure of reconstruction of the circumferential pharyngoesophageal defect because it provides pliable, elastic, secreting mucosa and posses reliable vascular anatomy. In this report, the authors introduce the modification of jejunal free flap for decreasing the complications in fatty complicated patients. METHOD: After harvesting the jejunum with mesentery and mesenteric vessels, both ends of jejunum were excised remaining the mesenteric portion. The jejunal portion of this composite flap was placed to reconstruct esophagopharyngeal defect area and the mesenteric portion was used to obliterate the dead space at paratracheal region and to cover the vital structure and the vascular anastomotic region. RESULT: A 72 year-old man with recurrent hypopharyngeal cancer who had about 15cm sized circumferential pharyngoesophageal defect after total pharyngectomy was reconstructed with jejunomesenteric composite free flap without any complications. CONCLUSION: The mesenteric flaps at both side of jejunomesenteric composite free flap provide the advantages that could obliterate dead space, that could provide cover for the vital cervical vascular structure in case of vascularity was compromised due to previous radiation therapy, and that could preserve as much vascularity at both ends of jejunal flap as possible.