Conservation surgery in laryngeal cancer and its role following failed radiotherapy. A histopathological and clinical study of 32 cases.

The partial laryngectomy specimens from 32 patients with laryngeal carcinoma were histologically examined by the technique of whole organ sectioning. Twenty-three of these patients had previous irradiation therapy. We identify local criteria for performing conservation laryngeal surgery based on clinical and histopathological studies. These criteria are borne out as success or failure, and outcome could be accurately predicted when adhered to. The salvage rate for patients receiving conservation surgery after failed radiotherapy was 60%, while 43% retained a functional larynx.