Our Summary

The research paper looks into the effects of a specific type of surgery, called a salvage total laryngectomy, on patients suffering from laryngeal carcinoma, a type of throat cancer. The study was done by reviewing the cases of 241 patients who had this surgery after their cancer returned. Most of these patients had initially been treated with radiotherapy, a few with chemoradiotherapy, and some with partial surgery.

The study found that the salvage laryngectomy was successful in controlling the cancer in about 81.3% of cases, and the five-year survival rate post-surgery was 65.3%. The success of the surgery was found to be influenced by several factors, including where the initial tumor was located, how far the cancer had spread initially and when it returned, whether all of the cancer was removed during surgery, and the condition of the neck tissues following surgery.

The study concluded that the five-year survival rate for patients who underwent a salvage laryngectomy was 65.3%. The key factors that influenced the control of the disease were whether all of the cancer was removed during the surgery, whether the cancer had spread to nearby regions, and how much the cancer had grown when it returned.

FAQs

  1. What is a salvage total laryngectomy and who is it performed on?
  2. What factors can influence the success of a salvage laryngectomy?
  3. What was the five-year survival rate for patients who underwent a salvage laryngectomy according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip that a doctor might give to a patient who has undergone a laryngectomy is to practice good communication techniques, such as using a voice prosthesis or an electrolarynx, to help improve their ability to speak. It is also important for patients to follow up with their healthcare team regularly for monitoring and support. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking and staying physically active, can help improve overall health and well-being after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended laryngectomy are those with laryngeal carcinoma that has not responded to other treatments, such as radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. These patients may have recurrent or advanced cancer that requires surgical intervention to remove the affected tissue and control the disease. Additionally, patients who have extensive involvement of the larynx or surrounding tissues may also be candidates for laryngectomy. It is important for patients to discuss their individual case with a medical professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their specific situation.

Timeline

Before a laryngectomy, a patient typically experiences symptoms of throat cancer such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, lump in the neck, and weight loss. They may undergo tests such as a biopsy, imaging scans, and blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. They may also undergo treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of both to shrink the tumor before surgery.

After a laryngectomy, the patient will no longer have a voice box and will need to learn new ways to communicate, such as using a speech prosthesis, electrolarynx, or esophageal speech. They will also need to adjust to changes in swallowing and breathing, which may require therapy and rehabilitation. The patient will also need to follow up with regular check-ups and screenings to monitor for cancer recurrence or complications from the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a salvage total laryngectomy and why is it recommended for me?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a salvage laryngectomy?

  3. How will my ability to speak, swallow, and breathe be affected after the surgery?

  4. What type of rehabilitation and support will be available to me after the surgery?

  5. Are there any alternative treatment options or clinical trials that I should consider?

  6. How successful is a salvage laryngectomy in controlling the cancer and what is the expected long-term outcome?

  7. What is the recovery process like and how long will it take for me to return to my normal activities?

  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or dietary restrictions I should be aware of post-surgery?

  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments and monitoring after the surgery?

  10. Are there any specific signs or symptoms I should watch out for that may indicate a recurrence of the cancer?

Reference

Authors: León X, Montoro V, Rovira C, Neumann E, López M, García J, Quer M. Journal: Acta Otorrinolaringol Esp (Engl Ed). 2020 Mar-Apr;71(2):70-77. doi: 10.1016/j.otorri.2019.01.001. Epub 2019 Apr 26. PMID: 31030804