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OBJECTIVE The anterior commissure is considered a laryngeal subsite, but it is not taken into account in the current T-staging system. The impact of anterior commissure involvement (ACI) on the oncologic outcomes of T1 glottic tumors has not been well defined and remains controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of ACI in the prognosis of T1 glottic tumors. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies was performed by including studies published up to July 2019. Studies were selected if they had investigated the local control rate (LCR) at 5 years of clinical stage I (T1 and N0) glottic squamous cell carcinoma with and without ACI. The difference in LCR at 5 years between T1 glottic tumors without and with ACI was evaluated. RESULTS The meta-analysis showed that the difference in LCR at 5 years between T1 glottic tumors without and with ACI is 12% (95% confidence interval: 8%-16%, p

Objectives/hypothesis Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) has a non-negligible incidence in elderly patients. However, there is still no clear indication on the ideal treatment for early-intermediate glottic LSCC in this specific age group. Both surgical and nonsurgical approaches may be burdened by complications and sequelae that negatively impact patient's health. In this setting, carbon dioxide transoral laser microsurgery (CO2 TOLMS) is a promising minimally invasive treatment option. Study design Retrospective case series in a single tertiary academic institution. Methods Patients who underwent CO2 TOLMS for Tis-T3 glottic LSCC from 1997 to 2017 were reviewed. Demographic, clinical, and tumor characteristics, as well as postoperative complications were recorded. Overall (OS), disease-specific (DSS), recurrence-free (RFS), laryngo-esophageal dysfunction free survivals (LEDFS), and organ preservation (OP) were calculated. Results A total of 134 patients (mean age, 80 ± 4 years; median, 79; range, 75-93) were included in the study. Seven lesions were classified as pTis, 65 as pT1a, 22 as pT1b, 35 as pT2, and 5 as pT3. No treatment-related death was observed. Twenty-eight (20.9%) patients reported 10 surgical and 19 medical complications. Five-year OS, DSS, RFS, LEDFS, and OP were 68.9%, 95.4%, 79.5%, 66%, and 92.5%, respectively. Age and comorbidities were associated with OS and LEDFS. Advanced T categories were negatively correlated with OS, DSS, RFS, LEDFS, and OP. Age and comorbidities were not significant risk factors for complications. Conclusions CO2 TOLMS can be considered a valuable therapeutic approach for selected Tis-T3 glottic LSCC even in the elderly given its favorable oncologic outcomes and minimal aggressiveness. Level of evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Objectives Multiple population studies have shown racial discrepancies in head and neck cancer treatment and outcomes. We sought to characterize the impact of race on clinical outcomes for patients with early glottic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in a tertiary institution which provides equivalent access to care. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all early glottic (T1-T2) squamous cell carcinoma at a single institution, the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans' Administration Medical Center (MEDVAMC). Data collected included demographic information, primary and adjuvant treatment modalities, time to diagnosis, time to treatment, recurrences, recurrence treatment modality, secondary malignancies, recurrence-free survival (RFS), and overall survival (OS). Results One hundred seventeen patients with a primary diagnosis of T1-T2 glottic squamous cell carcinoma were included. Black and white patients demonstrated equivalent rates of recurrence, RFS, and OS. There was no significant difference in treatment delivery by race for all recorded parameters. T1b tumors were associated with an increased risk of recurrence which did not translate into a statistically significant decrease in RFS or OS. Surgical treatment was associated with increased recurrence but similar RFS and OS compared to radiation-based treatment. Secondary malignancies were common; 12% of patients were diagnosed with a second primary lung cancer during the study period. Conclusion At our institution, race did not impact survival when access to care, treatment selection, and delivery are equivalent for early glottic SCC. Secondary lung cancer is a critical risk factor for mortality in this patient group and requires long-term surveillance and monitoring. Level of evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 130:1733-1739, 2020.

Objectives/hypothesis Voice outcomes of cordectomy for early glottic cancer are often poor due to vocal fold scarring and tissue defects. Improvements in this aspect could make cordectomy a more acceptable treatment option than radiotherapy. We hypothesized that a polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheet could be used to cover vocal fold defects. The present study aimed to prevent vocal fold scarring after cordectomy using the PGA sheet. Study design Animal experiment. Methods Nine male beagles were divided into three groups including a control group (n = 3). Following cordectomy, the vocal fold defect was covered with the PGA sheet plus fibrin glue (PGA group; n = 3) or with the PGA sheet plus fibrin glue containing basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF; the PGA-bFGF group, n = 3). Vocal folds were chronologically observed, and larynges were removed 6 months after surgery. Mucosal amplitude was measured using a high-speed camera, and histological analysis was performed. Results The re-epithelialization process was delayed in the PGA and PGA-bFGF groups compared with the control group. The mucosal amplitude was significantly more normalized and the thickness ratio significantly higher in the PGA and PGA-bFGF groups compared with the control group. The PGA-bFGF group had the highest elastic fiber density, followed by the PGA group and then the control group, with a significant difference between the PGA-bFGF and control groups. Conclusions The PGA sheet plus fibrin glue could serve as an effective regenerative scaffold for reconstructing vocal fold morphology and function after cordectomy, with the potential benefit of establishing an endoscopic sealing method for vocal fold defects. Level of evidence NA Laryngoscope, 130:E436-E443, 2020.

Although early glottic carcinoma is managed with radiation therapy (RT) or surgery, there is limited data on differences in second primary cancers of the larynx. We utilized the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to query T1 glottic carcinomas and assess the incidence of second primary laryngeal malignancies. Cumulative hazard for second primary laryngeal malignancies was compared with the log-rank method. Among 844 surgical and 2,272 RT cases, observed-to-expected incidence ratios of laryngeal second primaries were 10.19 (5.89-16.55) and 6.87 (4.64-9.81) per 10 thousand person-years, respectively. Mean person-years at risk were comparable at 8.16 years (surgery) and 8.01 years (RT), and relative increased risk of laryngeal second primary was 20.95 (surgery) versus 14.09 (RT) per 10 thousand person-years. Mean times to development of a second primary were also comparable (304 vs. 305 months, P = 0.898). Thus, second laryngeal primary development is analogous between cases treated with surgery alone versus RT. Continued discussion and investigation of surgery versus RT for early glottic squamous cell carcinoma will need to leverage these findings, along with ongoing investigation of voice and survival outcomes, to develop more well-informed treatment algorithms. Laryngoscope, 129:2713-2715, 2019.

Objectives/Hypothesis Common endpoints in reporting the outcomes for early glottic cancer do not highlight the importance of organ preservation. We evaluated the treatment outcomes among patients with T1aN0 laryngeal cancer with laryngectomy-free disease-specific survival (LFS-DSS), which is defined as time to total laryngectomy or time to death from cancer cause, against all other endpoints. Study Design Outcome research on an institutional database. Methods A retrospective review covered all consecutive patients from 2003 to 2013. Patients with T1a laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were offered the options of either radiation treatment (RT) or transoral laser microsurgery (TLM). Tumor control, survival outcomes, standard definition laryngectomy-free survival (LFS), and LFS-DSS were calculated. Results There were 105 patients, of whom 53 were treated with TLM and 52 were treated with RT. There were 11 recurrences within the TLM group, of which four were successfully salvaged with repeated TLM and two were salvaged with RT. Among the four recurrences within the RT group, all four patients had salvage total laryngectomies. The 5-year overall survival for patients treated with TLM versus RT was 86% versus 85% (P = .887), disease-free survival was 69% versus 78% (P = .151), LFS was 65% versus 77% (P = .198), LFS-DSS was 100% versus 88% (P = .030), and ultimate locoregional control was 100% in both groups. Conclusions Patients with T1aN0 glottic SCC treated with RT or TLM have similar survival outcomes. Patients with T1a tumor treated with TLM have better organ preservation compared to RT, when measured with LFS-DSS. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 127:1322–1327, 2017

OBJECTIVE To identify and compare treatment and system factors associated with survival in early-stage glottic cancer. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study of cases in the Commission on Cancer National Cancer Database. METHODS Adult patients with early glottic cancer (stage I or II) diagnosed between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2012, were included. Demographic, tumor, and survival variables were included in the analyses. Multivariate Cox regressions as well as univariate Kaplan-Meier analyses were conducted. RESULTS In total, 5,627 patients were included in the study. Treatment factors associated with improved survival included larynx-preserving surgery alone (hazard ratio [HR] 0.740; P = 0.001) and larynx-preserving surgery with radiation (HR 0.837; P = 0.010) when compared to radiotherapy alone. System factors associated with worse survival included intermediate- (HR 1.123; P = 0.047) or low- (HR 1.458; P = 0.017) volume centers; Medicaid (HR 1.882; P < 0.001), Medicare (HR 1.532; P < 0.001), or other government insurance (HR 2.041; P < 0.001); and delay between diagnosis and treatment greater than 100 days (HR 1.605; P = 0.006). CONCLUSION A number of treatment and system factors were found to be significantly associated with survival when controlling for patient and tumor factors. These may present targets for the improvement of outcomes in early-stage glottic cancers. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4. Laryngoscope, 127:616-622, 2017.

Objectives/Hypothesis Anterior commissure involvement is considered to be a risk factor for poorer outcomes after transoral laser cordectomy (TLC) for early glottic cancer. The objective of this study was to determine the outcomes and relevance of the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification in a large series of patients with early glottic cancer involving the anterior commissure treated by TLC. Methods The clinical and surgical parameters, as well as follow-up results, of the patients treated consecutively for early-stage glottic squamous cell carcinoma involving the anterior commissure (Tis, T1a, T1b, and T2) by transoral CO2 laser cordectomy in an urban academic medical center from January 2001 to March 2013 were analyzed retrospectively. The main outcomes measures were: 5-year disease free survival (DFS), ultimate local control with laser alone, laryngeal preservation, overall-survival (OS) rates, and disease-specific survival (DSS) rates (Kaplan-Meier). Results Ninety-six patients treated from January 2001 to March 2013 were included. The 5-year DFS and ultimate local control with laser alone rates were 61.7% and 74.4%, respectively. The laryngeal preservation rate was 93.4%; and the OS and DSS rates were 79.2% and 91.5%, respectively. Postoperative T classification (pT) status was not found to be a significant predictor of recurrences, but was predictive of more severe recurrences requiring other treatments than laser. Conclusion TLC is an effective treatment for early stage glottic cancer involving the anterior commissure. The TNM classification is a relevant prognosis factor for severe recurrences. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 2015

OBJECTIVES We aim to report oncologic outcomes after conventional radiotherapy (ConRT) using opposed lateral beams and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for tumor (T)1 nodal (N)0 T1 N0 glottic squamous cell carcinoma. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case-control study. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed demographic, disease, and treatment characteristics for patients treated at our institution during 2000 to 2013. RESULTS One hundred fifty-three patients (71%) were treated using ConRT and 62 (29%) using IMRT. The median follow-up for all patients was 68 months. There was no statistically significant difference in 5-year local control between patients with T1a versus T1b disease (94% vs. 89%, respectively, P = 0.5). Three-year locoregional control for patients treated with ConRT was 94% compared to 97% with IMRT (P = 0.4). Three-year overall survival (OS) for patients treated with ConRT was 92.5% compared with 100% with IMRT (P = 0.1). Twelve of 14 patients with local recurrence underwent salvage surgery with 5-year ultimate locoregional control of 98.5% and 97.1% in the ConRT and IMRT cohorts, respectively (P = 0.7). Multivariate analysis showed age

Objectives/Hypothesis To test the hypothesis that subligamental cordectomy produces superior acoustic outcome than subepithelial cordectomy for early (T1–2) glottic cancer that requires complete removal of the superficial lamina propria but does not involve the vocal ligament. Study Design Computer simulation. Methods A computational tool for vocal fold surgical planning and simulation (the National Center for Voice and Speech Phonosurgery Optimizer-Simulator) was used to evaluate the acoustic output of alternative vocal fold morphologies. Four morphologies were simulated: normal, subepithelial cordectomy, subligamental cordectomy, and transligamental cordectomy (partial ligament resection). The primary outcome measure was the range of fundamental frequency (F0) and sound pressure level (SPL). A more restricted F0-SPL range was considered less favorable because of reduced acoustic possibilities given the same range of driving subglottic pressure and identical vocal fold posturing. Results Subligamental cordectomy generated solutions covering an F0-SPL range 82% of normal for a rectangular vocal fold. In contrast, transligamental and subepithelial cordectomies produced significantly smaller F0-SPL ranges, 57% and 19% of normal, respectively. Conclusion This study illustrates the use of the Phonosurgery Optimizer-Simulator to test a specific hypothesis regarding the merits of two surgical alternatives. These simulation results provide theoretical support for vocal ligament excision with maximum muscle preservation when superficial lamina propria resection is necessary but the vocal ligament can be spared on oncological grounds. The resection of more tissue may paradoxically allow the eventual recovery of a better speaking voice, assuming glottal width is restored. Application of this conclusion to surgical practice will require confirmatory clinical data. Level of Evidence N/A. Laryngoscope, 125:1892–1899, 2015

Near-total laryngectomy (NTL) provides a func-tional alternative to total laryngectomy (TL) in T3-T4laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer. It was initiallyadvocated in extended glottic carcinoma and in hypo-pharyngeal carcinoma. More recently, the utility ofPearson’s NTL for supraglottic, pharyngeal, and base oftongue cancer has been reported.

Objectives/Hypothesis: The maturation process of scarred vocal folds has previously been investigated using animal models. However, in human models the features of scarred vocal folds have rarely been described, and the process by which the scar changes with time is not well known. The present study aimed to investigate the maturation process of human vocal folds scarred by cordectomy in terms of vibratory and aerodynamic functions. Study Design: Prospective case series. Methods: Eight patients with early glottic carcinoma and two patients with leukoplakia of the vocal fold underwent endoscopic cordectomy at Kyoto University Hospital between 2006 and 2008. The temporal changes in their vocal functions were evaluated using acoustic and aerodynamic analyses and videostroboscopic examination. Results: Normalized mucosal wave amplitude, mean flow rate, and the amplitude perturbation quotient appear to stabilize about 6 months after the procedure. Although there were individual variations in the changes in normalized glottal gap and maximum phonation time, it appears to take at least 6 months to reach plateau. The other parameters—pitch perturbation quotient and noise to harmonic ratio—varied by individual, and thus it was difficult to identify commonalities in the healing process. Conclusions: Some individual variation was observed in the temporal changes of vocal function of scarred vocal folds after cordectomy. However, in terms of vibratory and aerodynamic functions, this study suggests that it takes at least 6 months for maturation of vocal fold scarring. Laryngoscope, 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis: This study aims to assess the oncologic results of open and transoral surgical techniques in T1a and T1b category glottic carcinomas. Study Design: Retrospective clinical study. Methods: The files of 438 T1a and T1b glottic cancer cases managed with primary surgery were reviewed. Transoral laser surgery and open surgical procedures used to treat these cases, including cordectomy, vertical partial laryngectomy, and frontolateral partial laryngectomy, were compared for disease specific survival and local control rates. In addition, all techniques were compared for incidence of major complications and related tracheotomies. Results: No statistically significant differences were noted between laser surgery and open procedures with regard to disease specific survival and local control for both T1a and T1b cases. Laser surgery showed a significantly lower incidence of complications and tracheotomies. Conclusions: Laser surgery appears to be a very effective management modality for T1 glottic cancer with comparable results to open procedures and a lower incidence of complications. A transcervical approach should be reserved only for selected cases where individual anatomic factors do not permit complete tumor exposure during diagnostic microlaryngoscopy. Laryngoscope, 2009

Objective/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study is to determine the prognostic factors for local control and significance of total radiation dose in T1 glottic cancer. Study Design: Retrospective study. Methods: Data from 163 patients with T1 N0 M0 Stage I glottic squamous cell carcinoma (T1a: 115, T1b: 48) who were treated with radiotherapy alone during 1976 to 2002 were analyzed retrospectively. Age, source, total dose, field size, overall treatment time, and average fraction size were set as variables in multivariate analysis. Results: The 5-year local control rates (LCR) were 92.3% and 85.0% for patients with T1a and T1b glottic carcinoma, respectively. Only total radiation dose (P = .048) was a significant prognostic factor for local control in multivariate analysis of T1b glottic carcinoma. Local control in the higher total dose group was better than that in the lower total dose group (5 year LCRs were 100% and 76% for the group of >66 Gy and the group of ≤66 Gy, respectively. P = .024, logrank test). None of the treatment parameters were shown to be significant prognostic factors in multivariate analysis of T1a glottic carcinoma. Conclusions: Radiotherapy with a total dose of 67 to 70 Gy seemed to be required for local control in T1b glottic carcinoma. No significant benefit of total radiation dose >64 Gy was shown in the analysis of T1a glottic carcinoma.

Objectives: To analyze the impact of anterior commissure involvement on local control, survival, and laryngeal preservation in patients with early glottic cancer (pT1a–pT2a) treated with unimodality laser microsurgical resection. Study Design: Retrospective review of 263 patients with early glottic cancer treated between 1986 and 1996. Methods: Data on local control and overall survival rates were analyzed and calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method; the larynx preservation rates were given absolutely. Results: Among 158 patients presenting with T1a glottic cancer, the anterior commissure was involved in 28 cases; the 5-year local control rate was 84%, and the larynx preservation rate was 93%. In the 130 cases without anterior commissure involvement, the 5-year local control rate was 90.0% and the corresponding larynx preservation rate 99%. In the T1b category consisting of 30 patients, anterior commissure involvement was observed in 16 patients; the 5-year local control rate was 73%, and the larynx preservation rate was 88%. In the 14 cases without anterior commissure involvement, the 5-year local control rate was 92% and the corresponding larynx preservation rate 100%. Seventy-five patients had T2a glottic carcinomas, with normal vocal cord movement. The anterior commissure was involved in 45 cases; the 5-year local control rate was 79%, and the larynx preservation rate was 93%. In the 30 cases without anterior commissure involvement, the 5-year local control rate was 74.0% and the corresponding larynx preservation rate 97%. Conclusions: This study shows the effectiveness of laser microsurgery for early glottic carcinoma regardless of anterior commissure involvement at presentation. This method can be performed as an outpatient procedure, even when conducting reresections.

The objective of this study was to analyze the long-term results of laryngofissure with cordectomy for invasive glottic squamous cell carcinoma limited to the mid third of the mobile true vocal cord. The authors conducted a retrospective review of the medical charts and operative files of 33 patients with invasive glottic carcinoma limited to the mid third of the mobile true vocal cord managed with laryngofissure and cordectomy. A 10-year follow-up was achieved in 30 patients (90.9%). Kaplan-Meier actuarial analysis of survival, local control, nodal recurrence, distant metastasis, and second primary metachronous tumor was performed. The 5-year actuarial survival, local control, nodal recurrence, and distant metastasis estimates were 97%, 100%, 0%, and 0%, respectively. Tracheotomy was never performed. The overall laryngeal preservation rate was 100%. The 5- and 10-year actuarial metachronous second primary tumor estimates were 3% and 11.5%, respectively. The authors' experience suggested that laryngofissure and cordectomy should still be considered a valuable oncologic option for the management of invasive glottic carcinoma limited to the mid third of the mobile true vocal cord.

Objectives/Hypothesis To compare voice handicap and quality of life after radiotherapy (RT) versus transoral laser surgery (LS) for T1a glottic carcinoma. Study Design Retrospective study (1996–2011) of patients treated with RT or LS for T1a glottic squamous cell carcinoma with curative intent. Methods Disease-free patients were assessed using Voice Handicap Index (VHI 30) and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Head and Neck Quality of Life (EORTC QLQ-HN35) questionnaires. Results Of 147 patients, 95 (65%) completed the questionnaires: fifty-one patients an average of 8 years after RT and 44 patients an average of 4 years after LS (no difference in age or sex ratio). The average total VHI 30 was 13.1 for RT and 29.2 for LS (P

Objectives: To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of laryngeal framework reconstruction using titanium mesh in patients with glottic cancer after frontolateral vertical partial laryngectomy. Study Design: Prospective study. Methods: Defect of laryngeal framework, caused by frontolateral vertical partial laryngectomy in nine patients with T2 or T3 squamous cell carcinoma of glottic, were reconstructed with titanium mesh from 2007 to 2009. Computed tomography (CT) and fiberscopic examinations were performed at two weeks and three months postoperatively. Results: No aspiration and laryngeal stenosis was observed in the nine patients. CT scanning showed that titanium mesh was fastened well without displacement and deformity and that there was no laryngeal stenosis. Fiberscopic inspection showed that the larynx lumen was maintained well without stricture, shrinkage, and necrosis. No titanium mesh was exposed to the larynx lumen. Conclusions: Titanium mesh was a good alternative for reconstruction of the laryngeal framework. It provided adequate structural support to maintain airway patency. Laryngoscope, 2010

Objectives: To analyze vocal outcome after endoscopic CO2 laser treatment of early glottic carcinoma by perceptive and objective assessment. Study Design: Retrospective study. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 141 consecutive patients undergoing surgery for previously untreated early glottic carcinoma between October 1993 and July 2003. Five types of laser cordectomies as classified by the European Laryngological Society classification were performed. Comparison of voice results between the different types of cordectomies as well as with a control group was performed. Results: There was no significant difference in the vocal parameters between subepithelial and subligamental cordectomies and controls (P > .05). There was, however, a significant difference between the groups of transmuscular, total, and extended cordectomies and controls (P < .05). Conclusions: Good oncologic results and vocal outcomes with no difference between controls and subepithelial and subligamental cordectomies support the use of CO2 laser endoscopic surgery as the first line of treatment for early glottic cancer.

During the last 30 years, there has been expansion of the role of endoscopic partial laryngectomy procedures since Jako, Strong, and Vaughan explored the possibilities of CO2 laser microlaryngeal procedures. Despite the fact that a number of investigators have verified the validity of endolaryngeal laser resection of mid-sized glottic cancer, there are many who are unfamiliar with the technique and others who are uncomfortable with sectioning the tumor to facilitate its resection. In the past 3 years, 15 patients underwent successful en block resection of mid-sized glottic cancer (T1b 2, T2b 11, T3 2). Because en block resection is more consistent with open oncologic approaches, this method should widen the acceptance of this approach in selected lesions. The nuances of en block endoscopic frontolateral laryngectomy are presented with the hope that more surgeons will adopt this philosophy as an aspect of their armamentarium.

The best therapeutic approach for the treatment of T3N0M0 (stage III) glottic carcinoma is controversial.A retrospective study of Tumor Research Project data were performed using patients with T3N0M0 glottic squamous cell carcinoma treated with curative intent by seven different treatment modalities from January 1950 to December 1996 at Washington University School of Medicine/Barnes-Jewish Hospital.Two hundred patients with T3N0M0 glottic carcinoma were treated using seven modalities: total laryngectomy (TL, n = 30), TL with neck dissection (TL/ND, n = 40), conservation surgery alone (CS, n = 22), radiation therapy alone (RT, n = 29), TL combined with RT (TL/RT, n = 31), TL and ND combined with RT (TL/ND/RT, n = 36), and CS combined with RT (CS/RT, n = 12). The overall 5-year observed survival rate (OS) was 54% and the 5-year disease-specific survival rate (DSS) was 67%. The 5-year DSS for the individual treatment modalities included TL, 65.4%; TL/ND, 76.5%; CS, 71.4%; RT, 56.5%, TL/RT, 51.9%; TL/ND/RT, 71.4%; and CS/RT, 80%. There was no significant difference in DSS for any individual treatment modality (P =.375). The overall local and regional control rate was 74% (148 of 200). The overall recurrence rate was 37.5% with recurrence at the primary site and in the neck of 19.5% and 11%, respectively. Recurrence was not related to treatment modality. The 5-year DSS after treatment of recurrent cancer (salvage rate) was 35.8%. The incidence of distant metastasis was 11% and for second primary cancers it was 19.5%. There was no statistically significant difference in survival between necks initially treated (72%, 5-y DSS) versus necks observed and later treated if necessary (70%, 5-y DSS) (P =.797).The seven treatment modalities had statistically similar recurrence, complication, and survival rates. Patients with clear surgical margins have a significant survival advantage compared with patients with close and involved margins. Because postoperative radiation therapy in patients with positive margins did not improve survival, formal re-resection of the site of the positive margin should be considered. In patients whose N0 neck was not treated electively, close follow-up observation with meticulous examinations combined with appropriate treatment for subsequent neck disease resulted in a similar survival rate compared with those patients whose N0 necks were treated initially. Six-year minimum follow-up is recommended for early identification of primary and neck recurrence and for discovering expected second primary cancers. Patients treated with RT and CS had statistically similar rates of survival, maintenance of voice, and acquired permanent tracheal stoma. CS is a valid alternative to RT in treating highly selected patients with T3N0 glottic carcinoma.

Objectives/Hypothesis: To assess voice characteristics of patients following radiotherapy for early glottic cancer through a multidimensional analysis protocol including vocal function and voice quality measures. Methods: Voice analyses were performed for 60 patients treated with radiotherapy (66 Gy/33 fractions, 60 Gy/30 fractions, or 60 Gy/25 fractions) for early T1 glottic cancer and 20 matched control speakers. There was a longitudinal group of 10 patients for whom data were collected before as well as 6 months and 2 years after radiation. Furthermore, data were collected for five separate groups of 10 patients each, before, 6 months after, 2 years after, 3 to 7 years after, and 7 to 10 years after radiation. Vocal function was investigated by means of videolaryngostroboscopy, phonetography, maximum phonation time, and phonation quotient measures. Voice quality was assessed by means of objective acoustical analysis and subjective perceptual ratings by trained raters. Results: Voice characteristics of patients were decreased before radiotherapy, improved after treatment, and became comparable to the voice characteristics of control speakers in at least 55% of the patients. Following radiotherapy, deviant voice quality was mainly negatively affected by increased age and stripping the vocal cord for initial diagnosis. Stroboscopy revealed that next to increasing age and stripping the vocal cord, continued smoking after treatment decreased vocal function following radio-therapy. Conclusion: Voices of patients diagnosed with early glottic cancer improved but did not normalize fully after radiotherapy. Stripping the vocal cord for initial diagnosis and continued smoking after treatment decreased voice characteristics. A multidimensional analysis protocol including perceptual and acoustical analysis of voice quality and stroboscopic analysis of vocal function is recommended to investigate voice characteristics following treatment for early glottic cancer.

Objective: Squamous cell carcinoma of the glottis represents one of the most common malignancies of the head and neck. Although non-operative treatment of these lesions has dominated the last two decades, the use of surgical options, particularly transoral laser microsurgery, has recently seen an increase. Considering this paradigm shift, we seek to revisit the therapeutic role of vertical partial laryngectomy and present our experience with its application for T1-T3 glottic carcinoma.

From 1976 to 1986, 106 patients with early glottic carcinoma were managed endoscopically at our institution. Twenty-four (23%) patients required retreatment of the larynx for local recurrences or new primary lesions after initial endoscopic management. The probability of remaining free of local recurrence 3 years after primary surgery was estimated to be 0.87 and, after (years, it was 0.81. Of the 24 patients who required re-treatment of their larynx, 10 did so beyond 3 years, indicating a new second primary. In 1 patient who required retreatment within 3 years, a new primary developed on the opposite cord. Therefore, true local recurrences developed in 13 patients (12.3%); 3 of these patients (2.8%) ultimately required laryngectomy and 3 are dead (2.8%) with disease

Seventy patients with stage I and II glottic cancer were treated at the University of Utah School of Medicine hospitals from 1980 through 1987. Forty-four patients had stage I cancer and 26 patients had stage II. The overall survival in the stage I group was 82%. Primary site control was 93% with only three deaths due to laryngeal cancer. Local control rates were 93% with CO2 laser excision, 80% with CO2 laser and irradiation, and 67% with radiation alone. Stage II glottic patients had an overall survival of 61.5% with a local control rate of 76%. Twenty-one of 24 patients were treated by full-course irradiation. Of the eight patients who recurred at the primary site, all were irradiation failures who had initial bulky disease and impaired vocal cord mobility. Selective CO2 laser excision was highly effective, whereas radiation therapy results were somewhat disappointing. Open partial laryngectomy should be considered in bulky stage II disease patients.

Hemilaryngectomy with removal of a greater part or all of the arytenoid was done in 79 patients with good functional results with an overall cure rate and salvage rate of 94 percent. The survival rate for the primary modality of therapy was 90 percent.

All patients with cancer of the glottis seen at the Ontario Cancer Institute from 1955 to 1971 are reviewed. Changes in referral patterns and treatment policy are noted. Particular attention is given to those patients who received radiation for cure, and the place of laryngectomy in their subsequent management is examined. Of the estimated incidence of the disease in the geographic region served, 95 percent are now being seen and of these 97 percent receive treatment with curative intent. Two-thirds or 67 percent are cured at five years and their larynges intact, while a further 18 percent are cured by subsequent laryngectomy.

Four hundred nineteen cases of carcinoma of the larynx (1962-1965, Christie Hospital) treated primarily by radiation with surgery in reserve for cases where radiation failed, are reviewed. Two hundred ninety-one of these cases were glottic carcinomas and cure rates, and contribution from subsequent surgery is indicated in detail. Finally the overall results are compared with a larger series of 605 cases (1955-1961). Five-year cure rate in early cases is consistent at 89 percent; likewise in the latest cases at 30 percent, the intermediate group appear to have improved by some 8 percent over the period outlined. The overall cure rate is 70 percent.

The end results of 264 patients with vocal cord carcinoma treated by either surgery or radiation therapy at the University of Illinois from 1955 to 1972 are analyzed. Stage I glottic carcinoma can be cured by either surgery or radiation alone (86 percent and 80 percent). Stage II glottic cancer treated by surgery has achieved survival rates of 70 percent. The five-year end results of Stage III glottic cancer are 49 percent for surgery and 30 percent for radiation. The management of glottic carcinoma, according to anatomic site and indications for various modalities are discussed.

This study was undertaken to provide information on the voice of patients following radiotherapy for glottic cancer. Part I presents findings from questionnaires returned by 227 of 235 patients successfully irradiated for glottic cancer from 1960 through 1971. Part II presents preliminary findings on the speaking fundamental frequencies of 22 irradiated patients. Normal to near-normal voice was reported by 83 percent of the 227 patients; however, 80 percent did indicate persisting vocal difficulties such as fatiguing of voice with much usage, inability to sing, reduced loudness, hoarse voice quality and inability to shout. Amount of talking during treatments appeared to affect length of time for voice to recover following treatments in those cases where it took from nine to 26 weeks; also, with increasing years since treatment, patients rated their voices more favorably. Smoking habits following treatments improved significantly with only 27 percent smoking heavily as compared with 65 percent prior to radiation therapy. No correlation was found between smoking (during or after treatments) and vocal ratings or between smoking and length of time for voice to recover. There was no relationship found between reported vocal ratings and stage of the disease. Data on mean speaking fundamental frequency seem to indicate a trend toward lower frequencies in irradiated patients as compared with normals. A trend was also noted in both irradidated and control groups for lower speaking fundamental frequencies in heavy smokers compared with non-smokers or previous smokers. These trends would indicate some vocal cord thickening or edema in irradiated patients and in heavy smokers. It is suggested that the study of irradiated patients' voices before, during and following treatments by means of audio, aerodynamic and acoustic instrumentation would yield additional information of diagnostic value on recovery of laryngeal function. It is also suggested that the voice pathologist could assist in evaluating and guiding patients in vocal usages during and following treatments.

This report is a review of 106 Stage III glottic cancers treated surgically from January 1971 through December 1980. For analysis of recurrence and cause of death, the patients were assigned to four subgroups as well as considered as a single group. The subgroups were T3,N0, transglottic, all T3 glottic cancers regardless of prior treatment, and all T3 glottic cancers without prior treatment. Of the entire group, 8% either were not dead or had died of something other than cancer; 91% of patients with T3,N0 cancers without prior treatment either were alive or had died of another cancer. In the other subgroups the survivorship was between 80% and 91% with the exception of those with transglottic cancers. The findings in this study are discussed in light of the current controversies related to the stage of disease, particularly the issue of radical radiation with surgery for salvage for T3 glottic cancer.

From January, 1962, through December, 1973, 1,084 patients with cancer of the intrinsic larynx were treated at the Mayo Clinic. of the 1,084 patients, 136 were retreated after radiation therapy failed to cure their cancer (105 glottic, 30 supraglottis and one subglottic cancers). Recurrence of glottic cancer was generally recognized later than recurrences in the supraglottic area; likewise, glottic cancers were more advanced at recurrence than supraglottic growths. When feasible, conservation surgery was carried out on both glottic and supraglottic growths. Unfortunately, many growths were too advanced for conservation surgery by the time recurrence was recognized. The concept of “radiate-and-watch” for early glottic and supraglottic cancers is designed to save larynges. The concept is not supported by this study.

Radiotherapy for early glottic carcinoma has produced excellent results and low complication rates. Therefore, hemilaryngectomy and other forms of vertical partial laryngectomy have been used mainly for rescue therapy following radiation failure. Over a 9-year period selective application of this approach was used in eight patients out of 122 laryngeal cancer surgeries performed. Five patients were T1N0 and three were T2N0 at the time of initial diagnosis and at the time of recurrence. Three patients had healing problems postoperatively. Tracheal decannulation time was increased compared to patients who had hemilaryngectomy without previous radiotherapy. To date there has been no recurrence of carcinoma at any site with a mean follow-up of 58 months in surviving patients. This experience confirms reports which indicate that with careful selection, radiation failures for early glottic carcinoma can be rescued by hemilaryngectomy achieving excellent tumor control and moderately good preservation of laryngeal function.