The Treatment of Pharyngeal and Laryngeal Cancer

Abstract

The treatment of pharyngeal and laryngeal cancers have special characteristics because the pharynx and larynxare closely related to QOL. The major roles of the pharynx and larynx are breathing, speaking, and swallowing.These three roles are important for performing daily living activities and are also important for humans. It isrequired to find a balance between cancer treatment and QOL. If a total laryngectomy is performed, you will beunable to speak after the operation. If a total or partial pharyngectomy is performed, dysphagia will occur; youwill be unable to eat well or speak clearly after the operation. After a total laryngectomy, you will be unable tosmell. If the tracheostomy is unable to be closed after a pharyngectomy, the cannula will remain, and QOL willdecrease. If chemoradiation therapy is performed, you will be unable to eat well, you will need PEG, and you willbe unable to smell or taste. The treatment of head and neck cancers are required to improve QOL and a cure isneeded. Therefore, reduction surgery should be considered without degrading the treatment results.