Laser cordotomy versus radiotherapy: an objective cost analysis

Abstract

This study presents a cost analysis of and comparison between laser cordotomy and external beam irradiation for the treatment of early glottic carcinoma. It compares the curative results of the two modalities from data of a retrospective study at my institution and a literature review of published cure rates. It also reviews the results of objective voice assessments in cases representing both treatments. The findings of this study indicate that the cure rates are equivalent and that voice quality obtained after laser cordotomy is comparable to that obtained after irradiation, yet the total cost of external beam radiotherapy is significantly higher than that of laser surgery. Hence, the findings of this study provide strong support for initially treating early glottic tumors with laser surgery.