Abstract
Objective : To compare the postoperative functional outcomes achieved in patients treated with supracricoid partial laryngectomies (SCPL) and fronto-lateral partial laryngectomies (FLPL).
Patients : Twelve patients who underwent partial laryngectomies between July 2002 and October 2006 were evaluated. Four patients received SCPL, cricohyoidoepiglottopexy (CHEP) for three and cricohyoidopexy with one. Twelve patients had FLPL.
Method : The postoperative vocal and swallowing functions of both groups were evaluated and compared. Acoustic parameters were recorded : fundamental frequency (F0), jitter, shimmer, noise to harmonics ratio (NHR) and maximum phonation time (MPT). Parameters of swallowing function were studied with video fluorography : amount of aspiration, pharyngeal residue, and method of nutrition intake. Result : Better functional results in acoustic parameters were achieved in patients managed with the SCPL procedure than with those managed by the FLPL procedure. All patients were able to swallow; however, all cases that underwent SCPL had experienced severe aspiration just after treatment. Speech therapists applied speech and swallowing therapies resulting in all patients being able to resume oral nutritional intake.
