Current Status of Organ Preservation in Carcinoma Larynx

Abstract

Organ preservation in carcinoma larynx is a long debated topic. There are multiple organ preserving approaches in the management of carcinoma larynx depending on various factors. Radical radiotherapy (RT) and conservation laryngeal surgery have shown equivalent results in early laryngeal cancer. Concurrent chemoradiation (CTRT) is the standard treatment in stage III and IV laryngeal cancer with intact cartilage and functional larynx. Patients with cartilage destruction or dysfunctional larynx are not the candidates for organ preservation. This systematic review is aimed at discussing the evolution of different organ preserving approaches, their efficacy, impact on voice quality, their pitfalls and future directions.