A systematic review on oncological outcomes, functional results, and laryngeal preservation in vertical partial laryngectomies vs. transoral laser microsurgery for early stage glottic cancer.

PURPOSE: To compare the oncological and functional outcomes of transorallaser microsurgery (TLM) and vertical partial laryngectomy (VPL) in earlystageglottic carcinoma (T1-T2).

METHODS

A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines analyzedcomparative studies from 2000 to 2024 in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web ofScience. Outcomes included local control, recurrence rates, larynxpreservation, survival, voice quality, and complications.

RESULTS

Eight studies met inclusion criteria. TLM and VPL showed comparablesurvival rates for T1 tumors, but VPL provided better local control and larynxpreservation in T2 and anterior commissure involvement cases. TLM had higherrecurrence risk but superior functional outcomes, including better voicepreservation, shorter hospital stays, and lower complication rates.

CONCLUSION

Both techniques are viable, but TLM is preferred for T1 tumors,while VPL should be considered for T2 lesions because of higher local controlrates. Patient priorities and tumor characteristics should guide surgical choice.