A critical analysis of laryngectomy in the treatment of epidermoid carcinoma of the larynx

Abstract

E HAVE, in the past 2 years, been evaluating various therapeutic approaches used for squamous carcinoma of the larynx.'. 8 This study deals with a group of individuals treated primarily by laryngectomy and continues the evaluation. We think that the facts retrospectively derived from such a study are of considerable value in the objective choice of therapy for future patients. Which primary therapeutic modality-laryngectomy, with or without en bloc radical neck dissection, or irradiation therapy-offers the most satisfactory results for an individual with a specific lesion? Can useful groups of tumors and characteristics thereof be segregated? When is a laryngectomy inadequate, adequate, or more than adequate? What are the chances of salvage when laryngectomy fails? These are the questions to which answers are necessary for the competent treatment of individuals with laryngeal carcinoma.