Extra-mucosal laryngectomy for the treatment of radiation-induced non-functional larynx

Abstract

The normal human larynx has three major functions: phonation, breathing and airway protection. The voice is not essential for survival and sometimes could be compromised in an effort to preserve the airway and prevent aspiration [1]. Chronic repetitive bronchoaspiration is a serious consequence of the nonfunctional larynx, with increased morbidity and mortality. The treatment of aspiration comprises; conservative management and surgical procedures which can be divided into adjuvant and definitive procedures [2]. The adjuvant procedures include tracheotomy, cricopharyngeal myotomy [3], laryngeal suspension, cricoid resection [4] and various vocal fold medializations.