Swallowing function after transoral partial resection of pharyngeal and laryngeal cancers:

Abstract

Transoral resection of pharyngeal and laryngeal cancers has been reported to be a safe and effective minimally invasive surgery, because the post-operative function is generally well preserved. However, dysphagia due to pharyngeal constriction can develop depending on the extent of resection. We analyzed the swallowing function of 26 operated patients via questionnaires and a video endoscopic swallowing examination (VE). The T category, time of resection, previous operation, and radiation exposure were analyzed as explanatory variables. Swallowing function was well preserved even for cases of a large resection including the epiglottis and the arytenoid. However, patients with multiple resections or with a history of an esophageal cancer operation complained of moderate functional disorders. The VE score was significantly correlated with subjective symptoms reported on the questionnaire, confirming the relevance of VE for a functional evaluation. We emphasize that the number of lesions and medical history affect quality of life even after minimally invasive surgery.