A novel approach to laryngeal suspension after partial laryngectomy

Objectives: Supraglottic laryngectomy is a well-established surgical therap y for selected carcinomas of the larynx and hypopharynx, Most compromised b y this procedure and its variations is the laryngeal mechanism that protect s the lower respiratory tract from aspiration. Laryngeal suspension serves to compensate for the loss of the resected laryngeal elevator muscles by pu lling the larynx upward and forward beneath the tongue base. ln this study we describe a method of laryngeal suspension in supraglottic laryngectomy u sing a cartilage-anchored suture carrier device. Study Design: Report of th is novel approach to laryngeal suspension using seven suture anchors in two patients undergoing supraglottic laryngectomy, Methods: Seven Mitek Micro anchors (Mitek, Westwood, MA) were used to perform laryngeal suspension in two patients undergoing supraglottic laryngectomy, Our technique is compare d with traditional methods. Operative data as well as postoperative functio nal results are reviewed. Results: Laryngeal suspension using suture anchor s was successful, with failure of only one anchor. Oral alimentation was qu ickly reestablished in both patients. There were no perioperative or postop erative complications. Conclusions: We describe a novel approach to larynge al suspension that overcomes some of the technical challenges inherent in t raditional saturing techniques. This novel approach is technically easier a nd more efficient than traditional methods and accomplishes distribution of stress forces on the thyroid cartilage remnant.