Laryngeal Cancer

Understanding Laryngeal Cancer in Africa

Laryngeal cancer is a type of throat cancer that affects the voice box (larynx), impacting speaking, breathing, and swallowing. In Africa, it remains a significant health concern, with studies indicating a rising incidence due to increasing tobacco and alcohol use. Although global survival rates vary, limited access to early diagnosis and treatment in many African countries leads to poorer outcomes. In some regions, laryngeal cancer accounts for up to 5% of all head and neck cancers, with higher prevalence among men over 40.

Early symptoms include persistent hoarseness, a sore throat that doesn’t heal, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, unexplained weight loss, and a lump in the neck. Recognizing these signs early can improve treatment outcomes. Learn more about prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options here.

Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Laryngeal Cancer

Laryngeal cancer can be prevented by avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet, and protecting against HPV infection. Early diagnosis is key and involves physical examinations, imaging tests (CT, MRI, or PET scans), and biopsy procedures to confirm the presence of cancer.

Treatment options depend on the stage of cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy. Early-stage cases may be treated with radiation or surgery alone, while advanced cases often require a combination of treatments. Regular follow-ups are essential for monitoring and recovery.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.