Laryngeal suspension following an oropharyngeal resection and reconstruction

A technique to prevent dead space formation

Abstract

In this article, the authors describe a method of laryngeal suspension to prevent the formation of dead space and postoperative infection. In the surgical treatment of oropharyngeal carcinoma, three patients were treated by laryngeal suspension in order to avoid postoperative dysphagia. Regarding the laryngeal suspension procedures, absorbable suture materials were used for thyro-mandible sutures. Each suspension suture was placed dorsal to the mandible and thyroid cartilage to prevent the formation of any dead space. No patient demonstrated any severe complications related to the laryngeal suspension procedures. All 3 patients were able to eat normal diets postoperatively.