The postoperative pharynx and larynx

Abstract

Dysphagia is often seen in patients following surgery to the pharynx and larynx. It may be due to altered anatomy, altered physiology, or altered function. Dysfunction may be due to sensory disturbances or altered biomechanics due to resection of muscles or repositioning of muscles. Radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy often contributes substantially to dysfunction. Mucosal abnormalities are best evaluated during endoscopy while extraluminal abnormalities including tumor recurrence are evaluated with MR or CT.