[Horizontal glottectomy--oncologic and functional results. Part I. Horizontal glottic laryngectomy--oncologic results and assessment of the protective and respiratory function of the larynx].

INTRODUCTION

In the Otolaryngology and Laryngological Oncology Department of the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin (Poland) horizontal glottectomy is executed from 1985.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Material consists of 27 patients (26 males and 1 female; an average age 57 min. 40, max.). We evaluated: 1) oncological results, 2) 3 and 5-years survival rate without recurrence of the cancer, 3) evaluation of the protective and respiratory function. Protective function was evaluated basing on: a) period after operation when feeding tube was removed, b) subjective assessment of swallowing liquid and solid food. For evaluating respiratory function we stated period after operation to decannulation and also spirometric investigations were done.

RESULTS

From among 27 operated patients died 4 (15%)--one on the second day after operation. Recurrence of the cancer (local or into lymph nodes) were observed in 5/26 (19.2%). Three years without symptoms of recurrence survived 89% (17/19), five years--80% (12/15). Swallowing through natural way was possible during the first 24 hours after operation in 13 of 26 (50%) patients. In the remaining 13 only 2 feeding tubes were removed on the 35th day after operation. Decannulation was possible at 92% (24/26) patients. 15 (58%) patients were decannulated in the first two week after operation. Spirometric investigation (n = 10) showed no restriction and very small obturation on the larynx - very good laryngeal flow nearing to normal.

CONCLUSIONS

Oncologic results, protective and respiratory function after horizontal function results are satisfactory and comparable to the other researchers.