Transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery （TOVS） for hypopharyngeal cancer

Abstract

 We have adopted transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery （TOVS） for hypopharyngeal cancer as a minimally invasive surgical technique that was developed in Japan. The indications are T1-2 and N0-N2a. The practical surgical techniques, including pharyngeal exposure and surgical devices, are described. Among them, exposure of the operative field is the most important factor for successful and safe operation. Ten cases of T concerning successful operation are described. Pre-operative assessment of swallowing function is very important for evaluating the functional outcome.