Our Summary

The research paper compares the survival rates and quality of life in two groups of throat cancer patients who underwent a total laryngectomy, or removal of the larynx. The first group was treated in the late 19th century, and the second group was treated in the first two decades of the 21st century.

The study showed that survival rates have significantly increased over time. In the 19th-century group, only about 13% of patients survived for five years after the surgery, while in the 21st-century group, nearly 61% of patients survived for the same period.

The causes of death have also changed. In the earlier group, most deaths were due to complications from the surgery or the return of the cancer. In the recent group, deaths were also caused by other factors like the spread of cancer to other parts of the body, the development of a new primary tumor, or unrelated diseases.

Additionally, the modern group benefited from additional treatments like neck dissection and radiation therapy after surgery. Half of the survivors in the modern group were also able to use a device to help them speak after their larynx was removed, something that was not available to the 19th-century group.

In conclusion, the study shows that a total laryngectomy is no longer a death sentence for throat cancer patients, but can be a life-saving procedure that also allows for a decent quality of life.

FAQs

  1. How have survival rates changed over time for patients who have undergone a total laryngectomy?
  2. What are the main causes of death for patients after a total laryngectomy, and how have these changed from the 19th to the 21st century?
  3. What additional treatments are available for modern patients undergoing a total laryngectomy, and how do these contribute to their quality of life?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laryngectomy is to follow up with regular medical appointments and adhere to any recommended treatments or therapies to support recovery and maintain overall health. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, utilizing resources and support groups for laryngectomy patients can help with coping and adjusting to life after the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a laryngectomy are those with advanced throat cancer that has not responded to other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. These patients may have tumors that are too large or have spread to nearby tissues, making it necessary to remove the larynx to prevent the cancer from spreading further.

Patients who have recurrent throat cancer after previous treatments may also be recommended for a laryngectomy. Additionally, patients with certain types of throat cancer that are particularly aggressive or difficult to treat may be candidates for a laryngectomy.

Overall, patients who are recommended for a laryngectomy are those for whom the benefits of removing the larynx outweigh the potential risks and side effects of the surgery. These patients may have a better chance of survival and improved quality of life with a laryngectomy compared to other treatment options.

Timeline

Before laryngectomy:

  • Diagnosis of throat cancer
  • Consultation with healthcare providers to discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative tests and evaluations
  • Education on the procedure and potential lifestyle changes post-surgery

After laryngectomy:

  • Surgery to remove the larynx
  • Recovery period in the hospital
  • Rehabilitation to learn how to speak and swallow without a larynx
  • Adjusting to life without a voice box and using alternative methods of communication
  • Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers for monitoring and support

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after laryngectomy involves a series of steps from diagnosis to post-operative care and rehabilitation to help them adjust to the changes in their voice and swallowing function. The advancements in treatment and technology have significantly improved survival rates and quality of life for patients undergoing laryngectomy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about laryngectomy include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of a total laryngectomy?
  2. How long is the recovery process after the surgery?
  3. Will I be able to speak normally after the surgery, and if not, what are my options for communication?
  4. What type of follow-up care and monitoring will be needed after the surgery?
  5. Are there any additional treatments, such as radiation therapy or neck dissection, that may be recommended in addition to the laryngectomy?
  6. How will a total laryngectomy affect my quality of life, including eating, breathing, and swallowing?
  7. What are the chances of the cancer returning after the surgery?
  8. Are there any support groups or resources available for patients who have undergone a laryngectomy?
  9. What lifestyle changes, if any, will I need to make after the surgery?
  10. What role will speech therapy play in my recovery and rehabilitation process?

Reference

Authors: Laccourreye O, Garcia D, Mudry A. Journal: Eur Ann Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Dis. 2023 Jan;140(1):25-29. doi: 10.1016/j.anorl.2022.09.001. Epub 2022 Oct 6. PMID: 36210325