• Korean Journal of Head & Neck Oncology
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• v.14 no.2
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• pp.164-168
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• 1998

Background: Supraglottis and glottis have a different embryologic origin. Supraglottic cancer is characterized by high incidence of cervical lymph node metastasis at initial diagnosis, and favored surgical management of the early supraglottic cancer was partial supraglottic laryngectomy, however the procedure resulted in frequent incidences of postsurgical aspiration and voice disabilities. Objectives: We retrospectively analyzed the problems and the advantages of the endoscopic laser assisted supraglottic partial laryngectomy as a part of surgical management for early supraglottic cancer. Materials and Methods: During the past nine years 25 cases of supraglottic cancer(Tl 10 cases, T2 15 cases) were treated by tracheotomy and laser assisted supraglottic partial laryngectomy(KTP532, 15 Watt, continuous type) and in 10 cases with cervical lymph node metastasis, they were additionally managed by neck dissection one week later, and all cases received postoperative irradiation therapy. Results: At present, 19 cases are alive with no evidence of disease. During the follow up period total of six cases(primary failure: three cases, nodal failure: three cases) were recurred. In relation to tumor staging, One of the 10 Tl cases and two of the 15 T2 cases recurred showing 88% locoregional recurrence rate for early supraglottic cancer. Postoperative com-plication included bleeding in three cases who were controlled by electrocautery under general anesthsia, one case of longstanding aspiration and two cases of laryngeal stenosis as a delayed complication. Conclusion: High control rate suggests that the endoscopic laser assisted supraglottic partial laryngectomy may be a good initial management method for early supraglottic cancer, however it is difficult to determine the resection margin, therefore, accurate tumor staging must be done prior to surgery. In order to prepare for postoperative bleeding, edema and aspiration, the tracheotomy must be performed prior to surgery.