Oncological and functional results by horizontal glottectomy in laryngeal carcinomas

Background: The aim of this study is to describe the indications, surgical technique and results of horizontal glottectomy in laryngeal carcinomas. Ma terials and Methods: Twenty patients suffering from differentiated glottal carcinoma (15 T1b and 5 T1a) were treated between 1985 and 1994. A classic horizontal glottectomy, with some modifications, not extended to the ventri cular fold or to the arytenoid, was performed in every patient. All patient s followed a postoperative rehabilitative program. Time of feeding tribe re moval, decannulation and voice production were considered. Results: No loca l recurrence was recorded in any of the patients, however follow rip On 4 c ases was Only three years. No postoperative radiotherapy was used. Two pati ents died from cardiovascular causes. Post-operative average times were: di scharge from hospital after 10.5 days, feeding tube removal after 7 days; d ecannulation after 9.5 days. No major pulmonary complications nor laryngeal stenosis following surgery was recorded. In all patients adequate voice pr oduction was achieved. Conclusions: Our results show that horizontal glotte ctomy is a safe procedure in the treatment of laryngeal cancer. Local contr ol of disease, provided case selection is very accurate, can leach 100%. Ra pid and excellent laryngeal function may thus be obtained and the voice pro duction is adequate in every patient.