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Laryngeal Cancer

What is a Laryngectomy?


A laryngectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the larynx (voice box). This
surgery is typically performed to treat laryngeal cancer or severe damage affecting breathing and
swallowing. After a total laryngectomy, breathing is permanently rerouted through a stoma (an
opening in the neck). However, in some cases, a partial laryngectomy may be performed to
preserve part of the voice box and maintain speech function.

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Types of Partial Laryngectomy


A partial laryngectomy removes only part of the larynx, allowing patients to retain some
natural voice and breathing function. Types include:

 

  • Supraglottic Laryngectomy: Removes the upper part of the larynx above the vocal
    cords, preserving voice function. Suitable for small cancers confined to the supraglottic
    region.

  • Hemilaryngectomy: Removes one side of the larynx, often used for early-stage cancers.
    The remaining structures enable speech but may result in a weaker voice.

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  • Cordectomy: Removes one or both vocal cords, performed for small tumors affecting the
    cords. Patients may have a hoarse or breathy voice post-surgery.

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  • Vertical Partial Laryngectomy: Removes part of the larynx while keeping at least one
    vocal cord intact, helping retain some speech function.

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  • Frontolateral and Anterolateral Laryngectomy: Remove larger portions of the larynx
    while preserving breathing and swallowing function.

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Partial laryngectomies are typically performed for early-stage laryngeal cancer or cases where
complete removal is unnecessary.

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Laser Surgery for Partial Laryngectomies


WAISS Hospital offers minimally invasive laser surgery for early-stage laryngeal cancer and
benign lesions. This advanced technique uses high-precision lasers to remove tumors while
minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Benefits include:

  • Less invasive than traditional surgery

  • Faster healing and shorter hospital stay

  • Reduced risk of complications

  • Preservation of voice and swallowing function

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Our specialists use laser technology to perform cordectomies and supraglottic laryngectomies
with high precision, allowing patients to recover more quickly while maintaining as much
normal function as possible.

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Post-Surgery Breathing


After a total laryngectomy, breathing occurs through the stoma in the neck, which becomes the
permanent airway. Patients undergoing a partial laryngectomy may continue to breathe through
the nose and mouth but may experience temporary breathing changes.

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Communication After Laryngectomy


Losing natural voice function can be a significant change, but various communication methods
exist:

  • Electrolarynx: A handheld device generating vibrations to enable speech.

  • Tracheoesophageal Puncture (TEP): A small surgical opening allows speech via a one-way valve.

  • Esophageal Speech: Air is swallowed and released to produce sound.

Our speech-language specialists at WAISS provide training in these methods to help patients
regain communication skills.

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Nutrition and Swallowing


Following surgery, patients may require a feeding tube initially. Over time, they transition to oral
feeding with medical supervision. Patients who undergo partial laryngectomy often regain
swallowing function more quickly than those who have a total laryngectomy.

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Recovery and Support


Recovery involves physical healing and emotional adjustment. WAISS Hospital provides a
multidisciplinary team including surgeons, nurses, speech therapists, and counselors to support
you. We also offer stoma care education, voice rehabilitation, and patient support groups.

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