Laryngeal chondritis induced by C3-4 osteophyte following supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy: report of two cases.

OBJECTIVES

We have performed supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy or with cricohyoidopexy for tumour (T) stage T2 and T3 laryngeal cancer cases and some T4 cases. We report the clinical symptoms and management, using this technique to avoid complications.

CASE REPORT: Among patients undergoing the procedure, two cases manifested laryngeal chondritis following laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy. This complication was caused by C3-4 cervical osteophytes physically contacting the cricoid cartilage. Laryngeal microlaryngoscopy was performed, which revealed white, necrotic tissue in the posterior wall of the pharynx and persistent oedema of the neoglottis.

CONCLUSIONS

When encountering a patient with an excessive osteophyte formation at the level of C3-4, one needs to take extra precautions when undertaking laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy or with cricohyoidopexy.