[Reconstructive laryngectomy (author's transl)]

Abstract

The technique, indications, and results of the surgical operation known as reconstructive laryngectomy are described. The intervention involves the performance of a supracricoid subtotal laryngectomy with conservation of an arytenoid, followed by a cricohyoidopexy. This allows re-establishment of the triple function of the aerodigestive junction : phonatory, respiratory, and deglutition; a permanent tracheotomy thus not being necessary. Analysis of results of 103 operations of this type demonstrated that, when conducted under very precise conditions concerning the indications for surgery and the technique employed (conservation of recurrent nerve function of one side), the percentage of permanent tracheotomies following laryngectomy diminished from 72 to 33 p. cent.