Voice rehabilitation with voice prosthesis: Long term results, complications and risk factors.

OBJECTIVES: Despite the advances in surgical and non-surgical organ preservation treatments, total laryngectomy (TL) remains the most effective treatment in advanced larynx cancer and as salvage procedure in chemoradiation failure. One of the most devastating sequel after TL is loss of voice. Voice prosthesis (VP) is currently the preferred choice for voice rehabilitation. The purpose of this study is to identify VP complications, its lifespan and factors that influence the longevity of the VP. METHODS: We performed a retrospective study at a Tertiary University Hospital. Medical records of patients that underwent total laryngectomy, between January 1st of 2008 and 31st of December of 2017 were analyzed. RESULTS: Of the 84 patients that underwent laryngectomy, 60 had VP. The average age at the time of surgery 60.2 years old and there was a male preponderance (57:3). The mean lifespan of the prosthesis was 7.53 months. Leakage through the prosthesis was the most common reason for replacement of the prosthesis, followed by leakage around the prosthesis. Follow up time and manual suture were associated with prosthesis replacement. There was no significant relationship between the staging, tumor location or adjuvant radiotherapy and number of prosthesis replacement or its lifespan. CONCLUSIONS: Rehabilitation after TL is of major importance to improve quality of life after surgery. Tracheoesophageal puncture with voice prosthesis is a safe procedure for vocal rehabilitation and was performed in the majority of patients in our study. Follow-up time and type of suture were the main determinants of the lifespan of the prosthesis.

Voice rehabilitation with voice prosthesis: Long term results, complications and risk factors

Objectives: Despite the advances in surgical and non-surgical organ preservation treatments, total laryngectomy (TL) remains the most effective treatment in advanced larynx cancer and as salvage procedure in chemoradiation failure.One of the most devastating sequel after TL is loss of voice. Voice prosthesis (VP) is currently the preferred choice for voice rehabilitation. The purpose of this study is to identify VP complications, its lifespan and factors that influence the longevity of the VP.MethodsWe performed a retrospective study at a Tertiary University Hospital. Medical records of patients that underwent total laryngectomy, between January 1st of 2008 and 31st of December of 2017 were analyzed.ResultsOf the 84 patients that underwent laryngectomy, 60 had VP. The average age at the time of surgery 60.2 years old and there was a male preponderance (57:3).The mean lifespan of the prosthesis was 7.53 months. Leakage through the prosthesis was the most common reason for replacement of the prosthesis, followed by leakage around the prosthesis.Follow up time and manual suture were associated with prosthesis replacement. There was no significant relationship between the staging, tumor location or adjuvant radiotherapy and number of prosthesis replacement or its lifespan.ConclusionsRehabilitation after TL is of major importance to improve quality of life after surgery. Tracheoesophageal puncture with voice prosthesis is a safe procedure for vocal rehabilitation and was performed in the majority of patients in our study.Follow-up time and type of suture were the main determinants of the lifespan of the prosthesis. (AU)

Objetivos: A pesar de los avances en los tratamientos quirúrgicos y no quirúrgicos para la preservación de órganos, la laringectomía total (LT) sigue siendo el tratamiento más efectivo en el cáncer avanzado de laringe, y como procedimiento de rescate en caso de fallo de la radioquimioterapia.Una de las secuelas más devastadoras tras la LT es la pérdida de la voz. Las prótesis de voz (PV) son actualmente la elección preferida para la rehabilitación de la voz. El objetivo de este estudio es identificar las complicaciones de las PV, su vida útil y los factores que influyen en la longevidad de dichas prótesis.MétodosRealizamos un estudio retrospectivo en un hospital universitario terciario, en el que se analizaron los registros médicos de los pacientes sometidos a laringectomía total entre el 1 de enero de 2008 y el 31 de diciembre de 2017.ResultadosDe los 84 pacientes sometidos a laringectomía, 60 tenían PV. La edad media en el momento de la cirugía fue de 60,2 años, y hubo una preponderancia de varones (57:3).La vida útil media de las prótesis fue de 7,53 meses. La fuga a través de la prótesis fue el motivo más común de su sustitución, seguida de la fuga alrededor del dispositivo.El tiempo de seguimiento y la sutura manual estuvieron asociados a la sustitución de la prótesis. No existió una relación significativa entre la estadificación, la localización del tumor o la radioterapia adyuvante y el número de sustituciones de prótesis o su vida útil.ConclusionesLa rehabilitación tras la LT es de gran importancia para mejorar la calidad de vida tras la cirugía. La punción traqueoesofágica con prótesis de voz es un procedimiento seguro para la rehabilitación de la voz, habiéndose realizado en la mayoría de los pacientes de nuestro estudio.El tiempo de seguimiento y el tipo de sutura fueron los principales determinantes de la vida útil de las prótesis. (AU)

Análisis de factores predictivos en la aparición de fístulas faringocutáneas poslaringectomía total / Analysis or predictive factors associated with pharingocutaneous fistulas after total laryngectomy

RESUMEN Antecedentes: la fístula faringocutánea es la complicación más común luego de una laringectomía total. Los factores implicados en su aparición son estudiados por numerosos autores sin obtener resultados concluyentes. Objetivo: Evaluar las causas de aparición de fístula faringocutánea y describir los factores de riesgo implicados en la aparición de fístulas faringocutáneas en la población estudiada. Material y métodos: estudio retrospectivo, observacional, con análisis estadístico de variables. Se consideraron 55 pacientes a quienes se les realizó una laringectomía total inicialmente o como rescate, desde enero de 2000 hasta diciembre de 2019, con una proporción hombre/mujer de 48/7. La edad media fue de 61,3 años. El 96,36% con diagnóstico anatomopatológico de carcinoma epidermoide. Análisis estadístico (prueba de chi cuadrado-prueba de Mann-Whitney) de variables relacionadas con la aparición de fístula faringocutánea. Resultados: la incidencia de fístulas alcanzó el 20% de los pacientes laringectomizados. Cerraron espontáneamente el 72,73% de las fístulas y requirieron el uso de colgajos, 3 (27,27%) pacientes. De los pacientes fistulizados, el 63,64% tenían radioterapia previa. El uso de sonda nasogástrica para alimentación se prolongó en dichos pacientes por más de 15 días. El tiempo de internación promedio de los pacientes fistulizados fue de 23 días. Conclusión: en nuestro medio, el factor más asociado a la aparición de fístulas tras laringectomía fue el uso de radioterapia previa. La fístula en estos pacientes tardó más tiempo en cerrarse y requirió en algunos casos reconstrucciones más complejas.

ABSTRACT Background: Pharyngocutaneous fistula is the most common complication after total laryngectomy. The factors associated with its development have been studied by several authors without conclusive results. Objective: To evaluate the causes for the development of PCF and to describe the risk factors associated with PCF in the population studied. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective and observational study with statistical analysis of the variables. A total of 55 patients undergoing initial or salvage total laryngectomy from January 2000 to December 2019 were included. Male-to-female ratio was 48/7. Mean age was 61.3 years. The pathological diagnosis was epidermoid carcinoma in 96.36% of the cases. Statistical analysis: (chi square test and Mann-Whitney test) of the variables related with the development of pharyngocutaneous fistula. Results: The incidence of fistula in patients with laryngectomy was 20%. Spontaneous closure occurred in 72.73% and 3 patients (27.27%) required the use of flaps. In patients with fistula, 63.64% had previous radiotherapy. In these patients, the use of nasogastric tube feeding lasted > 15 days. Mean length of hospital stay in patients with fistula with 23 days. Conclusion: In our environment, previous radiotherapy was the most significant factor associated with the development of fistula. In these patients, fistula took longer to close and required more complex reconstructions in some cases.

Rehabilitación olfatoria en pacientes laringectomizados: maniobra de inducción del flujo aéreo nasal / Olfactory rehabilitation in laryngectomized patients: nasal airflow inducing maneuver

Resumen Introducción: La laringectomía total (LT) tiene como secuela la perdida de la voz, pero otra consecuencia no estudiada es la pérdida del olfato. Objetivo: Demostrar que la "maniobra de inducción del flujo aéreo nasal" (MIFAN) rehabilita el olfato en pacientes con LT. Material y Método: Estudio cuasiexperimental antes-después en pacientes laringectomizados por cáncer de laringe del Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau (HBLT) de Santiago de Chile. Evaluación a través de encuesta, examen físico, nasofibroscopía y test olfatométrico. Pacientes con alteración del olfato por transmisión serán enrolados y se enseñará la MIFAN. Resultados: Se estudiaron 12 pacientes: 10 hombres, 2 mujeres. Edad promedio 66,3 años, todos autovalentes. 66,6% presentó anosmia y 33,3% hiposmia. Todos lograron realizar la maniobra. Posrehabilitación el 100% presentó presencia de olfato valorada por olfatometría. Población intervenida similar a otras series en cuanto a sexo y edad. La erigmofonación facilita la rehabilitación con MIFAN. La rehabilitación del olfato se logró en todos y paralelamente mejoró el sentido del gusto. Conclusión: La MIFAN es una técnica sencilla, barata y asequible para lograr rehabilitar el sentido del olfato en pacientes laringectomizados.

Abstract Introduction: Total laryngectomy (TL) has as a consequence the loss of voice, but another not studied consequence is the loss of smell. Aim: To demonstrate that the "nasal airflow inducing maneuver" (NAIM) rehabilitates smell in patients with TL. Material and Method: A quasi-experimental before-after study in laryngectomized patients for laryngeal cancer from the Otorhinolaryngology Service (ENT) of the Barros Luco Trudeau Hospital (BLTH) at Santiago, Chile. Evaluation through survey, physical examination, nasofibroscopy and olfactory test. Patients with transmission impairment of smell were enrolled and NAIM was performed. Results: 12 patients were studied: 10 men, 2 women. Average age 66.3 years. All self-supporting. 66.6% presented anosmia and 33.3% hyposmia. They all managed to perform the maneuver. Post-rehabilitation, 100% presented the presence of smell assessed by olfactometry. Intervened population similar to other series in terms of sex and age. Esophageal speech facilitates NAIM rehabilitation. Rehabilitation of smell was achieved in all of them and in parallel, the sense of taste improved. Conclusion: NAIM is a simple, cheap and affordable technique to rehabilitate the sense of smell in laryngectomized patients.

Comparación de sutura mecánica con sutura manual de la faringe en laringectomía total / Comparison of mechanical suture with manual suture of the pharynx in total laryngectomy

Introducción: La sutura mecánica es una opción para el cierre de la faringorrafia en laringectomía total por cáncer de laringe. Objetivo: Comparar el uso de sutura mecánica lineal con sutura manual de la faringe durante la laringectomía total por cáncer de laringe. Material y Método: Se realizó un estudio de tipo experimental prospectivo. Se compararon dos grupos pacientes: Los pacientes con sutura mecánica desde 2018 a marzo de 2020 y los pacientes con sutura manual previa a enero de 2018 en el Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Barros Luco. Se analizaron fístula faringo-cutánea posoperatoria (FFC), tiempo operatorio, estadía hospitalaria y costo. Resultados: El estudio incluyó a 14 pacientes, cada grupo con n = 7. El grupo con sutura mecánica presento 0% de FFC y el grupo sutura manual 28%. El grupo con sutura mecánica reinicio alimentación a los 7 días y el grupo con sutura manual en promedio a los 11,5 (7-23) días. (p = 0,0023). El tiempo promedio de cirugía para el grupo experimental es de 288 ± 37,4 minutos y con sutura manual 311 ± 32,4 minutos. (p = 0,0176). El promedio de hospitalización para el grupo experimental fue de 11 ± 2,6 días (9 a 16), y para el grupo control fue de 21 ± 14 días (10 a 49) (p < 0,0001). Conclusión: La sutura mecánica es un procedimiento fácil de usar y seguro. Existiría un beneficio en el uso de sutura mecánica para el cierre faríngeo al compararlo con la sutura manual al disminuir el número de FFC, el tiempo operatorio y los días de hospitalización.

Introduction: Mechanical suture is an option for the closure of the pharyngorrhaphy in total laryngectomy due to laryngeal cancer. Aim: To compare the use of linear mechanical suture with manual pharyngeal suture during total laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer. Material and Method: A prospective experimental study was carried out. Two patient groups were compared: patients with mechanical suture from 2018 to March 2020 and patients with manual suture prior to January 2018 at the otorhinolaryngology service of the Barros Luco Hospital. Postoperative pharyngocutaneous fistula (FFC), operative time, hospital stay and cost were analyzed. Results: The study included 14 patients, each group with n = 7. The group with mechanical suture presented 0% of FFC and the group with manual suture 28%. The group with mechanical suture restarted feeding at 7 days and the group with manual suture on average at 11.5 (7-23) days (p = 0.0023). The average surgery time for the experimental group was 288 ± 37.4 minutes, while for the group with manual suture was 311 ± 32.4 minutes (p = 0.0176). The mean hospitalization for the experimental group was 11 ± 2.6 days (9 to 16), and for the control group it was 21 ± 14 days (10 to 49) (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The mechanical suture is an easy to use and safe procedure. There would be a benefit in the use of mechanical suture for pharyngeal closure when buying it with manual suture by reducing the number of FFCs, operative time and days of hospitalization.

Comparison of Patients With Total and Salvage Laryngectomy.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Total laryngectomy (TL) is one of the treatments available in locally advanced laryngeal carcinomas or as a salvage therapy when organ preservation fails, achieving high survival rates and few complications. The aim of this study was to analyse the oncological outcomes, comparing the data obtained with the current literature and analysing complications and survival. METHODS: The study included 62 patients with primary carcinoma of the larynx treated by primary or salvage TL between 2003 and 2019. We analysed the demographic, clinical and pathological characteristics, tumour stage, complementary treatments, postoperative complications, locoregional recurrences, metastases, and causes of death. RESULTS: The mean age was 64 years, 90.3% were men, 96.8% were smokers, 43.5% had multiple pathologies and 82.3% had a locally advanced stage. Of all TL 71% were primary and 29% salvage. Neck dissection was performed in 59.6%. Lymphovascular invasion was present in 30.6%, perineural invasion in 30.6% and margin involvement in 14.5%. During the follow-up, 17.7% presented locoregional recurrence and 11.3% distant metastases. Regarding complementary treatments, 56.4% of the patients received adjuvant therapy. The incidence of haemorrhage was 11.3%, infection 14.5%, and pharyngocutaneous fistula 21%. There was a statistically significant correlation between fistula and haemorrhage (P = .000) and between fistula and infection (P = .000). No statistically significant differences were found between the studied factors of primary and salvage TL. The 3-year overall survival was 92% and 5-year overall survival was 88%, finding statistical significance with the locally advanced stage (P = .038), T4 (P = .026), lymphovascular invasion (P = .019) and the involvement of more than 3 lymph nodes in the pathological anatomy (P = .005). On the multivariate analysis, the only variable that showed a significant relationship with survival was lymphovascular invasion (P = .026). CONCLUSIONS: Although organ preservation is a primary objective, TL remains a leading treatment in locally advanced carcinomas and as salvage in case of failure of medical therapy or partial surgery.

Comparación de pacientes con laringectomía total primaria y de rescate / Comparison of patients with total and salvage laryngectomy

Introducción y objetivos: La laringectomía total (LT) es uno de los tratamientos disponibles en los carcinomas de laringe localmente avanzados o como rescate ante el fracaso de la preservación de órgano, logrando altas tasas de supervivencia y escasas complicaciones. El objetivo de nuestro trabajo es analizar los resultados oncológicos obtenidos, comparándolos con la literatura actual y analizando sus complicaciones y supervivencia.MétodosSe incluyeron 62 pacientes con carcinoma primario de laringe tratados mediante LT primaria o de rescate entre los años 2003 y 2019. Analizamos las características demográficas, clínicas y anatomopatológicas, el estadio tumoral, los tratamientos complementarios, las complicaciones postoperatorias, las recidivas locorregionales, las metástasis y las causas de muerte.ResultadosLos pacientes tenían una edad media de 64 años, el 90,3% eran hombres, el 96,8% eran fumadores y el 43,5% tenían pluripatología. El 82,3% tenían un estadio localmente avanzado. Al 71% se les realizó LT primarias y al 29% de rescate. Al 59,6% se les practicó vaciamiento cervical asociado. El 30,6% tenían invasión linfovascular, el 30,6% invasión perineural y el 14,5% afectación de márgenes. Durante el seguimiento, el 17,7% presentaron una recidiva locorregional y el 11,3% metástasis a distancia. En cuanto a tratamientos complementarios, el 56,4% de los pacientes recibieron tratamiento adyuvante. La incidencia de hemorragia fue del 11,3%, la de infección del 14,5% y la de fístula faringocutánea del 21%. Hubo significación estadística entre la fístula y la hemorragia (p=0,000) y entre la fístula y la infección (p=0,000). No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los factores estudiados de la LT primaria y de rescate.(AU)

Introduction and objectives: Total laryngectomy (TL) is one of the treatments available in locally advanced laryngeal carcinomas or as a salvage therapy when organ preservation fails, achieving high survival rates and few complications. The aim of this study was to analyse the oncological outcomes, comparing the data obtained with the current literature and analysing complications and survival.MethodsThe study included 62 patients with primary carcinoma of the larynx treated by primary or salvage TL between 2003 and 2019. We analysed the demographic, clinical and pathological characteristics, tumour stage, complementary treatments, postoperative complications, locoregional recurrences, metastases, and causes of death.ResultsThe mean age was 64 years, 90.3% were men, 96.8% were smokers, 43.5% had multiple pathologies and 82.3% had a locally advanced stage. Of all TL 71% were primary and 29% salvage. Neck dissection was performed in 59.6%. Lymphovascular invasion was present in 30.6%, perineural invasion in 30.6% and margin involvement in 14.5%. During the follow-up, 17.7% presented locoregional recurrence and 11.3% distant metastases. Regarding complementary treatments, 56.4% of the patients received adjuvant therapy. The incidence of haemorrhage was 11.3%, infection 14.5%, and pharyngocutaneous fistula 21%. There was a statistically significant correlation between fistula and haemorrhage (P=.000) and between fistula and infection (P=.000). No statistically significant differences were found between the studied factors of primary and salvage TL. (AU)

Preservación de órgano en pacientes con tumores avanzados de laringe. Resultados de la quimioterapia de inducción versus quimio-radioterapia en la práctica clínica real / Organ preservation in patients with advanced laryngeal tumours. Results of induction chemotherapy versus chemoradiotherapy in actual clinical practice

Introducción y objetivos: Un porcentaje elevado de pacientes con carcinomas localmente avanzados de laringe son candidatos a ser incluidos en protocolos de preservación de órgano. El objetivo del presente estudio es comparar los resultados de dos esquemas de preservación, quimioterapia de inducción versus quimio-radioterapia, en pacientes con carcinomas de laringe localmente avanzados en un contexto de práctica clínica real.MétodosEstudio retrospectivo realizado en 157 pacientes con tumores localmente avanzados de laringe (T3-T4) tratados con quimioterapia de inducción (n = 121) o quimio-radioterapia (n = 36).ResultadosDe los 121 pacientes que iniciaron tratamiento con quimioterapia de inducción, seis fallecieron como consecuencia de toxicidad, 37 fueron tratados con cirugía y 78 completaron el esquema de preservación; 36 pacientes recibieron un tratamiento inicial con quimio-radioterapia. No existieron diferencias significativas en la supervivencia específica a los cinco años en función de que los pacientes iniciasen un tratamiento con quimioterapia de inducción o quimio-radioterapia (68,9% versus 75,7%, p = 0,259). Un 45,9% de los pacientes consiguió una preservación de la función laríngea. Los pacientes tratados con quimio-radioterapia tuvieron una tendencia a conseguir una supervivencia libre de pérdida de la función laríngea a los cinco años superior a la de los pacientes tratados con quimioterapia de inducción (55,6% versus 44,8%, p = 0,079).ConclusiónLos pacientes incluidos en un protocolo de preservación consiguieron una supervivencia libre de disfunción laríngea a los cinco años del 45,9%. No se observaron diferencias significativas en la supervivencia específica entre los pacientes tratados con quimioterapia de inducción o quimio-radioterapia. (AU)

Introduction and objectives: A high percentage of patients with locally advanced larynx carcinomas are candidates for inclusion in organ preservation protocols. The objective of this study is to compare the results of two schemes of preservation, induction chemotherapy versus chemoradiotherapy, in patients with locally advanced larynx carcinomas in the context of actual clinical practice.MethodsOur retrospective study included 157 patients with locally advanced tumours of the larynx (T3-T4) treated with induction chemotherapy (n = 121) or chemoradiotherapy (n = 36).ResultsFrom 121 patients who began treatment with induction chemotherapy, 6 died due to toxicity, 37 were treated with surgery, and 78 completed the preservation scheme; 36 patients received treatment with chemoradiotherapy. There were no significant differences in 5-year disease-specific survival between both treatments: 68.9% in induction chemotherapy versus 75.7% in chemoradiotherapy (p = 0.259). In 45.9% of patients the laryngeal function was preserved. Patients treated with chemoradiotherapy had a tendency to have better 5-year laryngeal dysfunction-free survival than patients treated with induction chemotherapy (55.6% versus 44.8%, p = 0.079).ConclusionPatients included in a protocol of organ preservation achieved a 5-year laryngeal dysfunction-free survival of 45.9%. There were no significant differences in disease-specific survival among patients treated with induction chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. (AU)

Comparison of patients with total and salvage laryngectomy. / Comparación de pacientes con laringectomía total primaria y de rescate.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Total laryngectomy (TL) is one of the treatments available in locally advanced laryngeal carcinomas or as a salvage therapy when organ preservation fails, achieving high survival rates and few complications. The aim of this study was to analyse the oncological outcomes, comparing the data obtained with the current literature and analysing complications and survival. METHODS: The study included 62 patients with primary carcinoma of the larynx treated by primary or salvage TL between 2003 and 2019. We analysed the demographic, clinical and pathological characteristics, tumour stage, complementary treatments, postoperative complications, locoregional recurrences, metastases, and causes of death. RESULTS: The mean age was 64 years, 90.3% were men, 96.8% were smokers, 43.5% had multiple pathologies and 82.3% had a locally advanced stage. Of all TL 71% were primary and 29% salvage. Neck dissection was performed in 59.6%. Lymphovascular invasion was present in 30.6%, perineural invasion in 30.6% and margin involvement in 14.5%. During the follow-up, 17.7% presented locoregional recurrence and 11.3% distant metastases. Regarding complementary treatments, 56.4% of the patients received adjuvant therapy. The incidence of haemorrhage was 11.3%, infection 14.5%, and pharyngocutaneous fistula 21%. There was a statistically significant correlation between fistula and haemorrhage (P=.000) and between fistula and infection (P=.000). No statistically significant differences were found between the studied factors of primary and salvage TL. The 3-year overall survival was 92% and 5-year overall survival was 88%, finding statistical significance with the locally advanced stage (P=.038), T4 (P=.026), lymphovascular invasion (P=.019) and the involvement of more than 3 lymph nodes in the pathological anatomy (P=.005). On the multivariate analysis, the only variable that showed a significant relationship with survival was lymphovascular invasion (P=.026). CONCLUSIONS: Although organ preservation is a primary objective, TL remains a leading treatment in locally advanced carcinomas and as salvage in case of failure of medical therapy or partial surgery.

Organ preservation in patients with advanced laryngeal tumours. Results of induction chemotherapy versus chemoradiotherapy in actual clinical practice. / Preservación de órgano en pacientes con tumores avanzados de laringe. Resultados de la quimioterapia de inducción versus quimio-radioterapia en la práctica clínica real.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: A high percentage of patients with locally advanced larynx carcinomas are candidates for inclusion in organ preservation protocols. The objective of this study is to compare the results of two schemes of preservation, induction chemotherapy versus chemoradiotherapy, in patients with locally advanced larynx carcinomas in the context of actual clinical practice. METHODS: Our retrospective study included 157 patients with locally advanced tumours of the larynx (T3-T4) treated with induction chemotherapy (n = 121) or chemoradiotherapy (n = 36). RESULTS: From 121 patients who began treatment with induction chemotherapy, 6 died due to toxicity, 37 were treated with surgery, and 78 completed the preservation scheme; 36 patients received treatment with chemoradiotherapy. There were no significant differences in 5-year disease-specific survival between both treatments: 68.9% in induction chemotherapy versus 75.7% in chemoradiotherapy (p = 0.259). In 45.9% of patients the laryngeal function was preserved. Patients treated with chemoradiotherapy had a tendency to have better 5-year laryngeal dysfunction-free survival than patients treated with induction chemotherapy (55.6% versus 44.8%, p = 0.079). CONCLUSION: Patients included in a protocol of organ preservation achieved a 5-year laryngeal dysfunction-free survival of 45.9%. There were no significant differences in disease-specific survival among patients treated with induction chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy.

Laringectomía total en el adulto mayor, Guantánamo 2015-2019 / Laringectomia total em idosos, Guantánamo 2015-2019 / Total laryngectomy in older adult, Guantanamo 2015-2019

Introducción: El cáncer laríngeo en el adulto mayor tiene una incidencia elevada por múltiples factores que se incrementan con la edad, pero con un tratamiento específico adecuado como la laringectomía total permiten mejorar y elevar la calidad de vida de estos pacientes. Objetivo: Caracterizar el resultado de las intervenciones por laringectomía total realizadas en pacientes adultos mayores en el servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto", provincia Guantánamo, en el período de enero de 2015 a diciembre de 2019. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo de corte transversal en el total de pacientes (n=32) de 60 años y más a los que se les realizó laringectomía total durante el periodo estudiado. Las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, hábitos tóxicos, condicionantes prequirúrgicas, técnica quirúrgica y complicaciones más frecuentes. Los datos se obtuvieron de las historias clínicas. Resultados: La mayoría de los pacientes correspondió al sexo masculino (90,6 porciento) entre 70-74 años; el 71,8 porciento de los pacientes fumaba. La laringectomía total combinada con tiroidectomía unilateral o bilateral y vaciamiento cervical selectivo fue la técnica quirúrgica más empleada y el faringostoma la complicación predominante. Conclusiones: La caracterización de los resultados de la laringectomía total en el adulto mayor portador de carcinoma epidermoide laríngeo aporta datos que permiten una mejor atención integral a este grupo poblacional(AU).

Introduction: Laryngeal cancer has a high incidence in older adult due to various factors which has been increasing in frequency with age. However, assuming an adecuated and specific treatment like total laryngectomy, allows improving and enhancing the patient's quality of life. Objective: To characterize the outcomes of total laryngectomy in older adult patients treated in the otorhinolaryngology service at the Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" in Guantánamo, from January 2015 to December 2019. Method: A descriptive, retrospective, and cross-sectional study was conducted on the total of patients (n=32) 60 and older, who underwent total laryngectomy during the mentioned period. Variables used were as follow: age, sex, toxic habits, preoperative conditions, surgical technique and, most frequent complications. Data was gathered from medical records. Results: Male patients 70 to 74 years were predominant (90.6 percent) and most of them smoked (71.8 percent). Total laryngectomy combined with unilateral or bilateral thyroidectomy and selective neck dissection was the most common surgical technique used and pharyngostoma was the predominant complication. Conclusions: The characterization of total laryngectomy outcomes in older adult with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma provides important data for better comprehensive care in this population group(AU).

Introdução: O câncer de laringe em idosos apresenta alta incidência devido a múltiplos fatores que aumentam com a idade, mas com um tratamento específico adequado como a laringectomia total, melhoram e melhoram a qualidade de vida desses pacientes. Objetivo: Caracterizar o resultado da laringectomia total realizada em pacientes idosos no serviço de Otorrinolaringologia do Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto", província de Guantánamo, no período de janeiro de 2015 a dezembro de 2019. Método: Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo e transversal em todos os pacientes (n=32) com 60 anos ou mais que realizaram laringectomia total. durante o período estudado. As variáveis estudadas foram: idade, sexo, hábitos tóxicos, condições pré-cirúrgicas, técnica cirúrgica e complicações mais frequentes. Os dados foram obtidos dos prontuários médicos. Resultados: A maioria dos pacientes era do sexo masculino (90,6 porcento) entre 70-74 anos; 71,8 porcento dos pacientes fumavam. A laringectomia total combinada com tireoidectomia unilateral ou bilateral e dissecção cervical seletiva foi a técnica cirúrgica mais utilizada e a faringostomia a complicação predominante. Conclusões: A caracterização dos resultados da laringectomia total em idosos com carcinoma espinocelular de laringe fornece dados que permitem uma melhor assistência integral a este grupo populacional(AU).

Tradução e adaptação transcultural do Swallow Outcomes After Laryngectomy Questionnaire (SOAL) para o português brasileiro / Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Swallow Outcomes After Laryngectomy (SOAL) Questionnaire for Brazilian Portuguese

RESUMO Objetivo desenvolver a adaptação do questionário Swallow Outcomes After Laryngectomy Questionnaire - SOAL para a cultura brasileira. Método estudo de validação restrito à tradução e adaptação transcultural. Foram seguidas as seguintes etapas: discussão sobre a necessidade do instrumento no contexto brasileiro, duas traduções independentes, síntese das traduções, análise por comitê de 12 juízes especialistas nas áreas de Disfagia e Oncologia, análise dos comentários dos juízes e dos Índices de Validade de Conteúdo por item e do questionário, aplicação do questionário numa amostra de 10 laringectomizados totais, retradução e síntese final. Resultados foi necessário realizar equivalências semântica, sintática/gramatical, experiencial, idiomática e de conteúdo, principalmente após análise dos especialistas. O Índice de Validade de Conteúdo por item e do questionário foram aceitáveis em todos os aspectos avaliados. A retradução foi equivalente à versão original. A comparação entre as versões original, traduzida e retraduzida viabilizou a versão final do instrumento. Conclusão foi desenvolvida a adaptação do SOAL para a cultura brasileira. O processo de validação continuará a partir da versão apresentada neste estudo.

ABSTRACT Purpose To adapt the Swallow Outcomes After Laryngectomy (SOAL) Questionnaire for the Brazilian culture. Method Validation study restricted to translation and cross-cultural adaptation. The following steps were taken: discussion of the need for the instrument in the Brazilian context, two independent translations, summary of the translations, analysis by a committee of 12 expert judges in dysphagia and oncology, analysis of the judges' comments and of the content validity indexes of each item and of the questionnaire as a whole, application of the questionnaire in a sample of 10 total laryngectomy patients, back translation and final summary. Results It was necessary to perform semantic, syntactic/grammatical, experiential, idiomatic and content equivalences, mainly after the analysis by experts. The content validity indexes of each item and of the questionnaire were acceptable for all evaluated aspects. The back translation was equivalent to the original version. The comparison of the original, translated and back-translated versions indicated that the final version of the instrument was viable. Conclusion The SOAL was adapted to the Brazilian culture was developed. The validation process will continue using the version presented in this study.

Which risk factors are associated with stomal recurrence after total laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer? A meta-analysis of the last 30 years / Quais fatores de risco estão associados à recorrência estomal após laringectomia total para câncer de laringe? Uma meta-análise dos últimos 30 anos

Abstract Introduction Stomal recurrence is a troublesome complication after total laryngectomy. Despite a large number of studies having been performed, there is still controversy about which risk factors are most significant for the development of stomal recurrence. Objective The objective of the present meta-analysis was to analyze the potential factors leading to stomal recurrence after total laryngectomy. Methods PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Ovid databases were systematically searched using multiple search terms. Eighteen studies with 6462 patients were identified. The quality of evidence was assessed by The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Results The results showed that, tumor subsite (supraglottic vs. subglottic, RR = 0.292, 95% CI 0.142-0.600, p = 0.001; glottic vs. subglottic, RR = 0.344, 95% CI 0.175-0.676, p = 0.002), T stage (RR = 0.461, 95% CI 0.286-0.742, p = 0.001), preoperative tracheotomy (RR = 1.959, 95% CI 1.500-2.558, p < 0.001) were the high-risk factors associated with the development of stomal recurrence. Conclusion From the results of our study, tumor subsite, T stage and preoperative tracheotomy were the significant risk factors for stomal recurrence. Methodologically high-quality comparative investigations are needed for further evaluation.

Resumo Introdução A recorrência estomal pós-laringectomia total e é uma complicação de difícil manejo. Apesar de um grande número de estudos ter sido feito, ainda há controvérsias sobre quais fatores de risco são mais significativos para o seu desenvolvimento. Objetivo O objetivo da presente meta-análise foi analisar os fatores potenciais para recorrência estomal após a laringectomia total. Método As bases de dados PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library e Ovid foram sistematicamente pesquisadas com vários termos de busca. Dezoito estudos com 6.462 pacientes foram identificados. A qualidade da evidência foi avaliada pelo National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Resultados Os resultados mostraram que o subsítio tumoral (supraglótico vs. subglótico, RR = 0,292, IC 95% 0,142 ± 0,600, p = 0,001; glótico vs. subglótico, RR = 0,344, IC 95% 0,175 ± 0,676, p = 0,002), estágio T (RR = 0,461, IC 95% 0,286 ± 0,742, p = 0,001), traqueotomia pré-operatória (RR = 1,959, IC 95% 1.500 ± 2.558, p < 0,001) foram os fatores de alto risco associados ao desenvolvimento de recorrência estomal. Conclusão Com base nos resultados de nosso estudo, o subsítio do tumor, o estágio T e a traqueotomia pré-operatória foram fatores de risco significativos para recorrência estomal. São necessárias investigações comparativas metodologicamente de alta qualidade para maior avaliação.

Which risk factors are associated with stomal recurrence after total laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer? A meta-analysis of the last 30 years.

INTRODUCTION: Stomal recurrence is a troublesome complication after total laryngectomy. Despite a large number of studies having been performed, there is still controversy about which risk factors are most significant for the development of stomal recurrence. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present meta-analysis was to analyze the potential factors leading to stomal recurrence after total laryngectomy. METHODS: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Ovid databases were systematically searched using multiple search terms. Eighteen studies with 6462 patients were identified. The quality of evidence was assessed by The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. RESULTS: The results showed that, tumor subsite (supraglottic vs. subglottic, RR=0.292, 95% CI 0.142-0.600, p=0.001; glottic vs. subglottic, RR=0.344, 95% CI 0.175-0.676, p=0.002), T stage (RR=0.461, 95% CI 0.286-0.742, p=0.001), preoperative tracheotomy (RR=1.959, 95% CI 1.500-2.558, p<0.001) were the high-risk factors associated with the development of stomal recurrence. CONCLUSION: From the results of our study, tumor subsite, T stage and preoperative tracheotomy were the significant risk factors for stomal recurrence. Methodologically high-quality comparative investigations are needed for further evaluation.

Salvage total laryngectomy: is a flap necessary? / Laringectomia total de resgate: o uso de retalho é necessário?

Abstract Introduction: Pharyngocutaneous fistula is the most significant complication after salvage total laryngectomy in patients who have received previous treatment with radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy. Objective: Our purpose is to review the fistula rate in radiated patients undergoing salvage total laryngectomy, to determine if the use of pectoralis major flap interposition reduces the incidence and duration of fistula and to examine other risk factors. Methods: We made a retrospective review of patients undergoing salvage total laryngectomy for exclusively larynx cancer after failure of primary curative radiotherapy between 2000 and 2017. General data from patients, risk factors and other complications were analyzed. Results: We identified 27 patients whose mean age was 66.4 years, mainly male (92.5%). The primary closure group without pectoralis major flap included 14 patients, and the group with pectoralis major flap closure included 13 patients. Pharyngocutaneous fistula was present in 15 patients (55.5%). Global pharyngocutaneous fistula rate was higher in the group of patients without pectoralis major flap comparing with those were the flap was interposed (78.6% versus 30.8%, p = 0.047). Also the pharyngocutaneous fistulas which need to be repaired with surgery (64.3% versus 7.7%, p = 0.03) and large pharyngostomes (64.3% versus 0%, p = 0.0004) were present in a higher rate in the group closed primary without pectoralis major flap. We did not find other risk factors with statistical significance. Oral diet initiation (84 days versus 21.5 days, p = 0.039) and the duration of hospitalization (98.3 days versus 27.2 days, p = 0.0041) were much lower in patients with a preventive pectoralis major flap. Two patients died as a consequence of complications of large pharyngostomes. Conclusions: Prophylactic pectoralis major flap reduced the incidence, severity and duration of fistula and should be considered during salvage total laryngectomy.

Resumo Introdução: A fístula faringocutânea é a complicação mais significativa após laringectomia total de resgate em pacientes que receberam tratamento prévio com radioterapia com ou sem quimioterapia. Objetivo: Revisar a taxa de fístula em pacientes irradiados submetidos a laringectomia total de resgate, para determinar se o uso de interposição de retalho do peitoral maior reduz a incidência e a duração da fístula e examinar outros fatores de risco. Método: Fizemos uma revisão retrospectiva de pacientes submetidos à laringectomia total de resgate para câncer exclusivamente laríngeo após falha da radioterapia curativa primária entre 2000 e 2017. Dados gerais dos pacientes, fatores de risco e outras complicações foram analisados. Resultados: Foram identificados 27 pacientes com média de 66,4 anos, principalmente do sexo masculino (92,5%). O grupo de fechamento primário sem retalho de peitoral maior incluiu 14 pacientes e o grupo de fechamento com retalho de peitoral maior incluiu 13 pacientes. Fístula faringocutânea esteve presente em 15 pacientes (55,5%). A taxa global de fístula faringocutânea foi maior no grupo de pacientes sem retalho de peitoral maior em comparação com aqueles que receberam o retalho (78,6% vs. 30,8%, p = 0,047). Além disso, as fístulas faringocutâneas que precisaram ser reparadas através de cirurgia (64,3% vs. 7,7%, p = 0,03) e grandes faringostomias (64,3% vs. 0%, p = 0,0004) apresentaram uma taxa mais alta no grupo fechado primariamente sem retalho do peitoral maior. Não encontramos outros fatores de risco com significância estatística. O início da dieta oral (84 dias vs. 21,5 dias, p = 0,039) e a duração da internação (98,3 dias vs. 27,2 dias, p = 0,0041) foram muito menores nos pacientes com uso preventivo do retalho do peitoral maior. Dois pacientes morreram em consequência de complicações de grandes faringostomias. Conclusões: O uso profilático do retalho do peitoral maior reduziu a incidência, a gravidade e a duração da fístula e deve ser considerado durante a laringectomia total de resgate.

Salvage total laryngectomy: is a flap necessary?

INTRODUCTION: Pharyngocutaneous fistula is the most significant complication after salvage total laryngectomy in patients who have received previous treatment with radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy. OBJECTIVE: Our purpose is to review the fistula rate in radiated patients undergoing salvage total laryngectomy, to determine if the use of pectoralis major flap interposition reduces the incidence and duration of fistula and to examine other risk factors. METHODS: We made a retrospective review of patients undergoing salvage total laryngectomy for exclusively larynx cancer after failure of primary curative radiotherapy between 2000 and 2017. General data from patients, risk factors and other complications were analyzed. RESULTS: We identified 27 patients whose mean age was 66.4 years, mainly male (92.5%). The primary closure group without pectoralis major flap included 14 patients, and the group with pectoralis major flap closure included 13 patients. Pharyngocutaneous fistula was present in 15 patients (55.5%). Global pharyngocutaneous fistula rate was higher in the group of patients without pectoralis major flap comparing with those were the flap was interposed (78.6% versus 30.8%, p=0.047). Also the pharyngocutaneous fistulas which need to be repaired with surgery (64.3% versus 7.7%, p=0.03) and large pharyngostomes (64.3% versus 0%, p=0.0004) were present in a higher rate in the group closed primary without pectoralis major flap. We did not find other risk factors with statistical significance. Oral diet initiation (84 days versus 21.5 days, p=0.039) and the duration of hospitalization (98.3 days versus 27.2 days, p=0.0041) were much lower in patients with a preventive pectoralis major flap. Two patients died as a consequence of complications of large pharyngostomes. CONCLUSIONS: Prophylactic pectoralis major flap reduced the incidence, severity and duration of fistula and should be considered during salvage total laryngectomy.

Oncological results of salvage laryngectomy in patients with laryngeal carcinoma. / Resultados oncológicos de la laringectomía de rescate en pacientes con carcinomas escamosos de laringe.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the oncological results of a salvage total laryngectomy in patients with a laryngeal carcinoma. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective review of a cohort of 241 patients treated with a salvage laryngectomy after a local recurrence. The initial treatment received by these patients was radiotherapy (n=201, 83.4%), chemoradiotherapy (n=19, 7.9%), and partial surgery (n=21, 8.7%), RESULTS: Total laryngectomy as salvage treatment achieved local control of the disease in 81.3% of cases, with a 5-year specific survival of 65.3%. The variables related with specific survival in a univariate analysis were the location of the primary tumour, the local extension of the initial tumour and of the recurrence, the resection margins, and the pathological status of the neck dissections. According to the results of a multivariate analysis, the variables related to specific survival were the status of the resection margins, the presence of simultaneous regional recurrence, and the local extension of the recurrence. CONCLUSION: The 5-year specific survival of patients treated with a salvage laryngectomy was 65.3%. The variables related with the control of the disease were the status of the resection margins, the presence of simultaneous regional recurrence and the local extension of the recurrence.

The applicability of high resolution manometry in total laryngectomy / Aplicabilidade da manometria de alta resolução na laringectomia total

Abstract: Purpose: This study aims to measure the pressure of the pharynx and the pharyngoesophageal segment (PES) at rest and during phonation in total laryngectomized patients, with different levels of voice production. Methods: four total laryngectomized individuals participated in the study, All patients underwent High Resolution Manometry (MAR) at rest and during phonation. After this process, a descriptive analysis of the results was performed. Results: we observed that during rest the patients had PES pressure below normal and this data may be related to changes in the muscular connections at the level of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) especially the interruption of the cricopharyngeal plexus. During phonation, two patients presented higher UES pressure values during phonation, when compared to the values found at rest, suggesting that introduction of air into the esophagus is followed by pharyngoesophageal contraction and that during phonation the patients with good esophageal speech may develop more pressure in this region. Conclusion: Studies with a greater number of participants may help define, for example, subjects who may benefit from procedures such as cricopharyngeal myotomy or other medical conduct in order to facilitate the acquisition of esophageal voice in these patients.

Resumo: Objetivo: medir a pressão da faringe e do segmento faringo-esofágico (SFE), no repouso e durante a sua vibração (na produção de voz esofágica) em pacientes laringectomizados totais com diferentes níveis de produção de voz. Método: participaram do estudo quatro indivíduos laringectomizados totais, todos submetidos à Manometria de Alta Resolução (MAR) no repouso e durante a fonação. Após esse processo, foi realizada uma análise descritiva dos resultados. Resultados: em nosso estudo, observamos que, durante o repouso, os pacientes apresentaram pressão do esfíncter esofágico superior (EES) abaixo da normalidade, e este dado pode estar relacionado a alterações das conexões musculares, ao nível do EES, especialmente, a interrupção do plexo cricofaríngeo. Durante a fonação, dois pacientes apresentaram maiores valores de pressão do EES, em todas as fonações, quando comparado com os valores encontrados no repouso, sugerindo que a introdução de ar no esôfago é seguida de contração faringo-esofágica e que, durante a fonação, os pacientes bons falantes esofágicos, podem desenvolver maior pressão nesta região. Conclusão: estudos com maior número de participantes podem ajudar a definir, por exemplo, sujeitos que poderão se beneficiar de procedimentos como a miotomia do cricofaríngeo ou outra conduta médica, a fim de facilitar a aquisição de voz esofágica nesses pacientes.

Repair of post-laryngectomy pharyngocutaneous fistulas using a pectoralis major flap / Reparo de fístulas faringocutâneas pós-laringectomia utilizando retalho do músculo peitoral maior

Abstract Introduction: The pectoralis major flap is a reconstructive option to consider in the treatment of pharyngocutaneous fistula after a total laryngectomy. There are not large studies assessing variables related to pharyngocutaneous fistula recurrence after removal of the larynx. Our objectives were to review the results obtained with this type of treatment when pharyngocutaneous fistula appears in laryngectomized patients, and to evaluate variables related to the results. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our results using either a myocutaneous or fasciomuscular pectoralis major flap to repair pharyngocutaneous fistula in 50 patients. Results: There were no cases of flap necrosis. Oral intake after fistula repair with a pectoralis major flap was restored in 94% of cases. Fistula recurrence occurred in 22 cases (44%), and it was associated with a lengthening of the hospital stay. Performing the flap as an emergency procedure was associated with a significantly higher risk of fistula recurrence. Hospital stay was significantly shorter when a salivary tube was placed. Conclusions: The pectoralis major flap is a useful approach to repair pharyngocutaneous fistula. Placing salivary tubes during fistula repair significantly reduces hospital stay and complication severity in case of pharyngocutaneous fistula recurrence.

Resumo Introdução: O retalho do músculo peitoral maior é uma opção a ser considerada no fechamento de fístula faringocutânea pós-laringectomia total. Não há grandes estudos que avaliem as variáveis relacionadas à recorrência da fístula faringocutânea após esse procedimento. Nossos objetivos foram avaliar os resultados obtidos com esse tipo de tratamento em pacientes laringectomizados com fístula faringocutânea e as variáveis relacionadas aos resultados. Método: Revisamos retrospectivamente os nossos resultados em 50 pacientes nos quais um retalho miocutâneo ou fasciomuscular do músculo peitoral maior foram utilizados para reparar a fístula faringocutânea. Resultados: Não houve casos de necrose de retalho. Após o reparo da fístula com um retalho do músculo peitoral maior, a ingestão oral foi restaurada em 94% dos casos. Houve recorrência da fístula em 22 casos (44%), a qual foi associada à duração da hospitalização. O uso do retalho como procedimento de emergência foi associado a um risco significativamente maior de recorrência da fístula. A permanência hospitalar foi significativamente menor quando utilizado um tubo de derivação salivar. Conclusões: O uso do retalho do músculo peitoral maior é uma abordagem útil para reparar a fístula faringocutânea. A colocação de tubos de derivação salivar durante o reparo da fístula reduz significativamente o tempo de hospitalização e a gravidade das complicações em caso de recorrência da fístula faringocutânea.

Repair of post-laryngectomy pharyngocutaneous fistulas using a pectoralis major flap.

INTRODUCTION: The pectoralis major flap is a reconstructive option to consider in the treatment of pharyngocutaneous fistula after a total laryngectomy. There are not large studies assessing variables related to pharyngocutaneous fistula recurrence after removal of the larynx. Our objectives were to review the results obtained with this type of treatment when pharyngocutaneous fistula appears in laryngectomized patients, and to evaluate variables related to the results. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed our results using either a myocutaneous or fasciomuscular pectoralis major flap to repair pharyngocutaneous fistula in 50 patients. RESULTS: There were no cases of flap necrosis. Oral intake after fistula repair with a pectoralis major flap was restored in 94% of cases. Fistula recurrence occurred in 22 cases (44%), and it was associated with a lengthening of the hospital stay. Performing the flap as an emergency procedure was associated with a significantly higher risk of fistula recurrence. Hospital stay was significantly shorter when a salivary tube was placed. CONCLUSIONS: The pectoralis major flap is a useful approach to repair pharyngocutaneous fistula. Placing salivary tubes during fistula repair significantly reduces hospital stay and complication severity in case of pharyngocutaneous fistula recurrence.