Analysis of functional results after extensive oral/oropharyngeal cancer resection

Abstract

Objective: Based on previous studies, factors affecting postoperative function include not only extent of surgical resection but also method of reconstruction, age and history of radiotherapy. True risk factors cannot be ascertained by analyzing these factors individually. Multivariate analysis was therefore performed to examine factors affecting eating following extensive oral or oropharyngeal cancer resection and reconstruction. Methods: Among patients who underwent extensive resection of oral or oropharyngeal cancer and reconstructive surgery between 1993 and 2000, the subjects comprised 45 patients who underwent laryngeal suspension and cricopharyngeal myotomy. Analysis endpoints comprised quality of diet at discharge and 6 months after operation. A logistic analysis was used. Results: Multivariate analysis identified the following combinations with the strongest correlations: 1) advanced age (older than 60 years), percentage of tongue base resected, and reconstruction method at discharge; 2) advanced age (older than 60 years), percentage of tongue base resected, and previous radiotherapy more than 50 Gy at 6 months after operation.