Update on the endoscopic management of laryngeal cancer.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This update addressing the endoscopic management of laryngeal cancer presents new data published after January 2003. This new information is interpreted in the context of contemporary management principles established before 2003.

RECENT FINDINGS: Endoscopic techniques in the management of laryngeal cancer continue to undergo modifications designed to improve oncologic efficacy in a manner that maximally preserves function. The modifications reported over the past two years have included the introduction of new diagnostic techniques, new surgical approaches, new endoscopic equipment, and new management philosophies.

SUMMARY: Endoscopic resection has become a widely accepted and commonly employed management option in the treatment of laryngeal cancer. Advances in outcomes analysis have improved the capacity to objectively compare endoscopic treatment to other options. The prospects for applying these tools to a prospective randomized study are limited. Debate will continue as to the role for endoscopic management of laryngeal cancer.