Voice and swallowing after partial laryngectomy: Factors influencing outcome

Background The purpose of this study was to assess the factors influencing swallowing and phonatory results after partial laryngectomy. Methods We carried out a medical chart review of patients who underwent partial laryngectomies between June 2003 and November 2010, focusing on functional outcomes. Results Thirty-two patients were enrolled. No statistically significant difference was found in the comparison of phonatory outcomes of patients with preservation of both arytenoids; the results of the Yanagihara classification were significantly different (p =.015) in patients with an atypical neoglottis; radiotherapy statistically significantly influenced only the mean fundamental frequency (p =.035). The type of partial laryngectomy does not seem to affect the deglutition results; radiotherapy statistically significantly affected the dysphagia score (DS; p =.03), penetration aspiration (p =.02), and MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI; p =.02). Conclusion Horizontal supraglottic laryngectomy and supracricoid partial laryngectomy give the same swallowing results. The presence of both arytenoids does not influence the final outcome compared to patients in whom only 1 arytenoid is preserved. Postoperative radiotherapy only influences the swallowing function. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.