Search

Objectives: To examine whether social determinants of health (SDH) factors are associated with time to diagnosis, treatment selection, and time to recurrent surgical intervention in idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) patients. Methods: Adult patients with diagnosed iSGS were recruited prospectively (2015-2017) via clinical providers as part of the North American Airway Collaborative (NoAAC) and via an online iSGS support community on Facebook. Patient-specific SDH factors included highest educational attainment (self-reported), median household income (matched from home zip code via U.S. Census data), and number of close friends (self-reported) as a measure of social support. Main outcomes of interest were time to disease diagnosis (years from symptom onset), treatment selection (endoscopic dilation [ED] vs cricotracheal resection [CTR] vs endoscopic resection with adjuvant medical therapy [ERMT]), and time to recurrent surgical intervention (number of days from initial surgical procedure) as a surrogate for disease recurrence. Results: The total 810 participants were 98.5% female, 97.2% Caucasian, and had a median age of 50 years (IQR, 43-58). The cohort had a median household income of $62 307 (IQR, $50 345-$79 773), a median of 7 close friends (IQR, 4-10), and 64.7% of patients completed college or graduate school. Education, income, and number of friends were not associated with time to diagnosis via multivariable linear regression modeling. Univariable multinominal logistic regression demonstrated an association between education and income for selecting ED versus ERMT, but no associations were noted for CTR. No associations were noted for time to recurrent surgical procedure via Kaplan Meier modeling and Cox proportional hazards regression. Conclusions: Patient education, income, and social support were not associated with time to diagnosis or time to disease recurrence. This suggests additional patient, procedure, or disease-specific factors contribute to the observed variations in iSGS surgical outcomes.

OBJECTIVES Laryngeal amyloidosis (LA) is a rare disease characterized by extracellular protein deposition within the larynx. Treatment is difficult due to the frequently submucosal and multifocal nature of disease. The mainstay of treatment is surgical resection; however, recurrence rates are high. Recently, use of radiotherapy (RT), either alone or postoperatively, for LA has been adapted from the management of extramedullary plasmacytoma and has been shown to provide local disease control. Here, we describe the experience with adjuvant RT for LA at our center. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case series. METHODS Retrospective study of patients with amyloidosis of the larynx, with or without other disease sites, seen at a tertiary academic center between 2011 and 2019. Outcomes included disease characteristics, recurrence rates, treatment modalities, and pre- and posttreatment voice handicap index (VHI)-10. RESULTS Ten patients met eligibility criteria. Mean follow-up time for all patients was 62.0 ± 41.0 months; mean follow-up time after last treatment was 51 ± 55 months. All but one patient underwent surgical resection of disease. Seven patients underwent subsequent RT. Of these seven, six underwent RT at our institution; five received a dose of 45 Gray (Gy); and one received a dose of 20 Gy. All seven completed RT without toxicity-related interruption. Patients undergoing RT underwent 2.1 ± 1.3 surgical procedures prior to RT; no patients required surgery after RT. Mean pretreatment VHI-10 was 22.9 ± 8.1; mean posttreatment VHI-10 was 12.9 ± 13.3. CONCLUSION RT after surgery for LA can provide good local control without unacceptable toxicity and may decrease the need for further surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 Laryngoscope, 131:1810-1815, 2021.

Objective: Associations between dysphonia and paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM) have been previously reported in adults, but it is unclear whether similar associations exist for adolescents. The goals of this study were to identify the prevalence and severity of voice disorders in adolescent patients with PVFM, identify differences between those with and without clinician-identified dysphonia, and investigate what factors were associated with voice handicap in this population. Methods: A retrospective review of eligible adolescent patients diagnosed with PVFM over a 1-year period at a single institution was undertaken. Data collected from the medical record included demographic background, medical history and workup, patient- and family-reported symptoms, and findings from the laryngeal examination. The presence or absence of clinician-diagnosed dysphonia was used to subdivide the sample for analysis. Results: Forty-eight patients with PVFM were included. The sample was primarily female (73%) with a median age of 15 years. Few patients had voice complaints (5%), but clinician-diagnosed dysphonia was common (52%) and ranged from mild to moderate. Vocal hyperfunction was frequently observed (55%), but anatomic abnormalities associated with dysphonia were rare (6%). Adolescents with dysphonia were significantly older, more likely to have vocal hyperfunction on laryngoscopy, and more likely to return for therapy than those without dysphonia. No notable differences existed in the number of behavioral therapy sessions or in the likelihood of completing treatment between the two groups. The majority of participants (79%) had at least one “confounding factor” (i.e., were currently taking a medication for asthma, allergies, or reflux, or had a laryngeal abnormality) but this did not differ significantly between those with and without dysphonia. A minority of individuals (28%) had abnormal scores on the Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Age was positively correlated with dysphonia severity but no other significant associations were observed. Conclusion: Although voice complaints are rare, dysphonia among adolescents with PVFM is common and can occur in the absence of laryngeal abnormalities and medical comorbidities, typically as a result of vocal hyperfunction. Dysphonia does not appear to be a barrier to PVFM treatment and may be a useful target in therapy.

Objectives: Supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL) is an oncologically sound alternative to total laryngectomy that results in long-term alterations in vocal function. Little is known about long-term improvements in dysphonia and the mechanism of vocal recovery is unclear due to the lack of a standardized rating tool: The Pattern, Degree, and Vibration (PDV) Scale. Methods: Data from 24 individuals were compared over 3 post-operative timepoints after SCPL: 3 to 11, 12 to 35, and over 35 months. Voice outcomes were assessed using the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) and the GRBAS scale. Laryngeal exams were deidentified and rated using a novel rating scheme developed using literature review and consensus panel discussions. Results: There were significant improvements in VHI scores, Grade, and Strain over time. There was an increase in the Degree of Closure and a decline in Mucosal Vibration across timepoints. Pattern of Movement (P) was associated with dysphonia Grade. Better Degree of Closure (D) was associated with lower VHI scores and better Grade and Roughness. Mucosal Vibration (V) was associated with reduced Breathiness and Strain but variable Roughness. Age, T-stage, radiation treatment, surgery type, and time to feeding-tube removal were also associated with voicing characteristics. Conclusions: There is evidence of improvement in several voice parameters over time after the first post-operative year. Various subcomponents of the new PDV rating scale were associated with voice outcomes. Its utility for research and clinical practice merits further investigation.

Objectives: Expiratory muscle strength training (EMST) is a safe, effective intervention that can be performed at home and may be beneficial for individuals with voice and swallowing disorders. To date there have been few studies of EMST in the head and neck cancer population, and there are no previous reports of its use after supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL). The current prospective clinical pilot study was undertaken to determine the safety and efficacy of a 4-week treatment program. Methods: Six participants were recruited who had previously undergone SCPL, were medically stable, and had no contraindications for use of the device. At baseline, objective respiratory measurements were collected, dietary status was recorded, and participants were asked to complete a series of validated self-report instruments relating to voice, swallowing, breathing, and cough. Following the completion of treatment, baseline measures were repeated, and participant feedback was solicited. Results: The majority of individuals found the device easy to use (83%) and beneficial (83%). The side effects of treatment were relatively minor and included dizziness, muscle inflammation, and vocal fatigue. There were improvements in 2 measures from before to after treatment, namely, an average 21% increase in peak cough flow (from 371.67 to 451.33 L/min) and a 38% decrease on the Dyspnea Index (from 6.17 to 3.83). Other measures showed inconsistent changes. Conclusions: EMST appeared to improve cough strength and reduce dyspnea symptoms after SCPL. Further study of the relative efficacy of EMST compared to other rehabilitation protocols after SCPL is needed.

Laryngeal diversion procedures are used for patients with intractable aspiration. These surgeries include laryngotracheal separation (LTS) and tracheoesophageal diversion (TED). Both procedures are potentially reversible and offer an alternative to a near-field laryngectomy (NFL).

Objective: Paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM) is responsive to behavioral therapy, often resulting in a remission of symptoms, but little is known about whether treatment is beneficial with regard to PVFM-associated psychological symptoms or functional limitations. The goal of the study was to identify patient perceptions of the impact of treatment for PVFM and characteristics associated with treatment outcomes. Methods: A survey was conducted of all adults who had received at least 1 session of treatment for PVFM in our outpatient clinic over a 2-year period. Results: The 39 participants ranged in age from 18 to 82 and had received a median of 3 treatment sessions. At a median follow-up of 10 months following treatment, respondents reported improvements in a wide range of areas, including sports and leisure, daily activities, and social participation. The majority reported improvements in feelings of anxiety, helplessness, and control. Poorer outcomes were associated with more severe voice symptoms, fewer treatment sessions, and needing oral steroids for asthma control. Conclusion: There was a reduction in a wide range of activity limitations after treatment. Feelings of control were strongly associated with positive outcomes. The therapy appeared to be equally effective for adults with exercise-induced and environmental variants of PVFM.

Importance Sarcopenia, or the loss of muscle mass, is associated with poor treatment outcomes in a variety of surgical fields. However, the association between sarcopenia and long-term survival in a broad cohort of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) is unknown. Objective To determine whether sarcopenia is associated with long-term survival in patients undergoing major head and neck surgery for HNC. Design, Setting, and Participants A retrospective medical records review was conducted at a tertiary care academic hospital. Two hundred sixty patients undergoing major head and neck ablative procedures with cross-sectional abdominal imaging performed within 45 days prior to surgery were included in the analysis. The study was conducted from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2016. Data analysis was performed from June 1, 2018, to February 28, 2019. Interventions Measurement of cross-sectional muscle area at the L3 vertebra level. Main Outcomes and Measures Two- and 5-year overall survival were the primary outcomes. Results Of the 260 patients included in the study, 193 were men (74.2%); mean (SD) age was 61.1 (11) years. Sarcopenia was present in 144 patients (55.4%). Two-year overall survival was 71.9% of the patients (n = 82) in the sarcopenia group compared with 88.5% of the patients (n = 85) in the nonsarcopenia group (odds ratio [OR], 0.33; 95% CI, 0.16-0.70). At 5 years, overall survival was 36.5% in patients (n = 23) with sarcopenia and 60.5% in patients (n = 26) without sarcopenia (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.17-0.84). On multivariate analysis, sarcopenia was a significant negative predictor of both 2-year (OR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.14-0.77) and 5-year (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.17-0.84) overall survival. Conclusions and Relevance Sarcopenia appears to be a significant negative predictor of long-term overall survival in patients with HNC undergoing major head and neck surgery. Sarcopenia may be accurately assessed on cross-sectional imaging and may be useful clinically as a prognostic variable and as an area for intervention to improve treatment outcomes.

We describe the diagnostic workup and surgical treatment of a patient presenting with the unique case of vertebral artery (VA) occlusion subsequent to head flexion leading to compression of an aberrant VA by the ipsilateral superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage. Imaging revealed ischemic infarcts as well as the presence of an aberrant right VA, which was compressed by the ipsilateral superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage upon neck flexion. The patient was managed with laryngoplasty involving removal of the right superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage. Laryngoscope, 129:E445-E448, 2019.

Background Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD®), an intensive 4-week program of voice therapy, is regarded as the most well-researched, efficacious treatment for hypokinetic dysarthria in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Although numerous studies have published acoustic and perceptual findings, there is comparatively little information about the impact of LSVT LOUD® on functional communication outcomes. Methods This prospective, longitudinal study investigated the impact of treatment on daily communication in 25 individuals with PD. Three validated communication measures (the Voice Handicap Index, the Communicative Effectiveness Scale, and the Communicative Participation Item Bank) were given before and after treatment and again 4–8 weeks and 3–6 months following treatment. Communication partners were also asked to rate communication effectiveness at all four timepoints. Results Significant improvements were found for all three self-reported scales which remained above baseline across all post-treatment timepoints. In addition, self-reported communicative effectiveness was significantly correlated with the assessments of communication partners. Particular benefits were reported for more complex communicative activities such as asking questions, giving detailed information, communicating in noisy situations, and speaking in groups. Conclusions Overall, the findings suggested that LSVT LOUD® promotes an increased sense of personal control over the communication difficulties resulting from PD by decreasing voice handicap and improving communication effectiveness and communicative participation. For individuals with PD, LSVT LOUD® may reduce the risk of social isolation by improving communication and facilitating social participation. Learning outcomes As a result of this activity, the participant will be able to (1) describe the impact of PD on voice and communication, (2) discuss how these characteristics may be associated with more global measures of functional communication and particularly communicative participation, (3) explain which aspects of functional communication were affected by LSVT LOUD® as assessed by study participants and their communication partners.

The purpose of the review is to provide otolaryngologists a framework for understanding voice evaluation by speech-language pathologists and the voice therapy techniques they employ. Recent reports have demonstrated the efficacy of behavioral voice therapy in the management of a variety of types of dysphonia, including those associated with vocal fold lesions and those without. Otolaryngologists can be experts in managing specific laryngeal lesions to improve voice. However, not all voice problems have lesions amenable to surgical or medical therapies. Many are associated with maladaptive voicing behaviors. Speech-language pathologists can be experts in both the evaluation of vocal function and technique. They may employ a variety of techniques to improve vocal quality and function in patients with and without structural or neurologic laryngeal pathology. Otolaryngologists can partner to manage a constellation of voice problems with directed voice evaluation and therapy. A basic review of these techniques and this partnership with voice therapists is presented.

Objectives/hypothesis To determine whether the application of laser-assisted techniques for the treatment of Zenker's diverticulum would reduce the failure rate of endoscopic procedures without compromising safety or durability. Study design Cohort study with long-term follow-up. Methods We performed a single-institution review of 106 consecutive patients in whom endoscopic laser-assisted diverticulotomy (ELD) or endoscopic stapler-assisted diverticulotomy (ESD) was attempted. The Eating Assessment Tool was collected pre- and postoperatively. Long-term follow-up was conducted on average 2.4 years postoperatively. Results The decision to use either ELD or ESD was made intraoperatively. An endoscopic procedure was successfully completed in 103 of 106 patients (97.2%). Eighty-three patients underwent ELD, 20 underwent ESD, and only three required use of an open approach. No serious complications occurred. Postoperatively, there was a significant reduction in dysphagia symptoms. At follow-up, most individuals had dysphagia scores within the normal range (69%) and were eating a regular diet (73%). Fourteen patients (14%) required revision. Compared to historical data from our institution for ESD alone, the addition of ELD resulted in a reduction in the failure rate without an increase in serious complications. Recurrence rates and long-term outcomes were equivalent. Conclusion Through careful patient selection, appropriate workup, and judicious use of techniques, it was possible to perform endoscopic surgery in a majority of patients without serious complications. Both approaches resulted in short- and long-term symptom management with high levels of satisfaction. Level of evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 126:2705-2710, 2016.

Objectives/Hypothesis Idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) is a rare and potentially life-threatening disease marked by recurrent and progressive airway obstruction frequently requiring repeated surgery to stabilize the airway. Unknown etiology and low disease prevalence have limited the ability to characterize the natural history of iSGS and resulted in variability in surgical management. It is uncertain how this variation relates to clinical outcomes. Study Design Medical record abstraction. Methods Utilizing an international, multi-institutional collaborative, we collected retrospective data on patient characteristics, treatment, and clinical outcomes. We investigated variation between and within open and endoscopic treatment approaches and assessed therapeutic outcomes; specifically, disease recurrence and need for tracheostomy at last follow-up. Results Strikingly, 479 iSGS patients across 10 participating centers were nearly exclusively female (98%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 96.1–99.6), Caucasian (95%, 95% CI, 92.2–98.8), and otherwise healthy (mean age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index 1.5; 95% CI, 1.44–1.69). The patients presented at a mean age of 50 years (95% CI, 48.8–51.1). A total of 80.2% were managed endoscopically, whereas 19.8% underwent open reconstruction. Endoscopic surgery had a significantly higher rate of disease recurrence than the open approach (chi2 = 4.09, P = 0.043). Tracheostomy was avoided in 97% of patients irrespective of surgical approach (95% CI, 94.5–99.8). Interestingly, there were outliers in rates of disease recurrence between centers using similar treatment approaches. Conclusion Idiopathic subglottic stenosis patients are surprisingly homogeneous. The heterogeneity of treatment approaches and the observed outliers in disease recurrence rates between centers raises the potential for improved clinical outcomes through a detailed understanding of the processes of care. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 2015

Importance Surgical treatment comparisons in rare diseases are difficult secondary to the geographic distribution of patients. Fortunately, emerging technologies offer promise to reduce these barriers for research. Objective To prospectively compare the outcomes of the 3 most common surgical approaches for idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS), a rare airway disease. Design, Setting, and Participants In this international, prospective, 3-year multicenter cohort study, 810 patients with untreated, newly diagnosed, or previously treated iSGS were enrolled after undergoing a surgical procedure (endoscopic dilation [ED], endoscopic resection with adjuvant medical therapy [ERMT], or cricotracheal resection [CTR]). Patients were recruited from clinician practices in the North American Airway Collaborative and an online iSGS community on Facebook. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary end point was days from initial surgical procedure to recurrent surgical procedure. Secondary end points included quality of life using the Clinical COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Questionnaire (CCQ), Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10), Eating Assessment Test-10 (EAT-10), the 12-Item Short-Form Version 2 (SF-12v2), and postoperative complications. Results Of 810 patients in this cohort, 798 (98.5%) were female and 787 (97.2%) were white, with a median age of 50 years (interquartile range, 43-58 years). Index surgical procedures were ED (n = 603; 74.4%), ERMT (n = 121; 14.9%), and CTR (n = 86; 10.6%). Overall, 185 patients (22.8%) had a recurrent surgical procedure during the 3-year study, but recurrence differed by modality (CTR, 1 patient [1.2%]; ERMT, 15 [12.4%]; and ED, 169 [28.0%]). Weighted, propensity score–matched, Cox proportional hazards regression models showed ED was inferior to ERMT (hazard ratio [HR], 3.16; 95% CI, 1.8-5.5). Among successfully treated patients without recurrence, those treated with CTR had the best CCQ (0.75 points) and SF-12v2 (54 points) scores and worst VHI-10 score (13 points) 360 days after enrollment as well as the greatest perioperative risk. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study of 810 patients with iSGS, endoscopic dilation, the most popular surgical approach for iSGS, was associated with a higher recurrence rate compared with other procedures. Cricotracheal resection offered the most durable results but showed the greatest perioperative risk and the worst long-term voice outcomes. Endoscopic resection with medical therapy was associated with better disease control compared with ED and had minimal association with vocal function. These results may be used to inform individual patient treatment decision-making.

Neuromuscular disease frequently leads to dysphagia and difficulty managing secretions. Dysphagia may lead to medical complications, such as malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and other pulmonary complications, as well as social isolation and reduced overall quality of life. This review provides an overview of dysphagia associated with neuromuscular disease in adults, along with a concise review of swallowing assessment and intervention options.

With the introduction of modern equipment, imaging, and surgical techniques, many surgeons now treat Zenker diverticula via endoscopic approaches. Newer equipment and imaging systems have allowed adequate exposure of the esophagodiverticular wall which contains the cricopharyngeal muscle enabling its division by various means. This chapter addresses these methods, including laser-assisted diverticulotomy, stapler-assisted diverticulotomy, harmonic scalpel-assisted diverticulotomy, and bipolar diathermic electrocoagulation division of the party wall. Perioperative treatment is directed at avoiding mediastinitis in all of the endoscopic approaches. Treatment outcomes for endoscopic approaches to Zenker diverticula have consistently been excellent with first-treatment success and low complication rates. Zenker diverticula can be safely and effectively managed with endoscopic techniques for the majority of patients. Large Zenker diverticula should be treated with stapler-assisted technique. Treatment of smaller Zenker diverticula or difficult-to-expose diverticula should be attempted with laser-assisted diverticulotomy.

The professional singer comes to the day of surgery with a measure of anxiety about the effects of anesthesia or surgery on his or her voice. A detailed informed consent should be obtained to discuss and document risks, as well as set realistic expectations for recovery. The smallest endotracheal tube possible should be used to intubate in the least traumatic way. Movement of the tube should be minimized, both during anesthesia, as well as in emergence. Postoperative care may be coordinated with an otolaryngologist and speech language pathologist as the singer plans a return to performance.

Background Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is an idiopathic spinal disease common in the elderly and characterized by flowing ossification and osteophyte formation along the spinal column. Cervical hyperostosis is capable of producing dysphagia, stridor, and airway obstruction; however, there are no extant reports of true paralysis of bilateral vocal folds in patients fulfilling the criteria for DISH. Methods and Results We report a case of a 61-year-old man presenting with dysphagia and dyspnea. Flexible laryngoscopy revealed bilateral true vocal fold paralysis. Cervical radiograph showed flowing ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament with preservation of intervertebral disc height. Tracheotomy and cervical osteophytectomy were performed, after which the patient showed improved swallowing and speaking ability and was decannulated without complication. Conclusion In the case presented, cervical osteophytectomy dramatically reversed bilateral vocal fold paralysis and dysphagia secondary to hyperostosis, thus negating the need for prolonged tracheostomy and feeding tube dependence. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2016

Presbylaryngis is a common cause of dysphonia in elderly patients. Type I thyroplasty serves to improve glottic closure and vocal quality by correcting bowing. Although unilateral and injection-based procedures are well-characterized in the treatment of broadly defined glottic insufficiency, there are insufficient outcomes data for bilateral medialization thyroplasty in the treatment of presbylaryngis. The aim of this study was to review the change in measures of vocal quality before and after bilateral medialization thyroplasty for presbylaryngis.This is a retrospective case series.The records of 21 patients with presbylaryngis undergoing bilateral medialization thyroplasty between 2007 and 2014 were reviewed. Implant materials included silastic (n = 17) and hydroxyapatite (n = 4). Preoperative and postoperative comparison of vocal function was conducted using Voice Handicap Index, maximum phonation time, auditory-perceptual severity ratings, and blinded paired-comparison of Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice and Visual-perceptual stroboscopic ratings. Paired sample t tests were used to assess all outcome measures.Significant improvements were found in Voice Handicap Index scores (P 0.007), maximum phonation time (P 0.03), Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice (P 0.04), and clinician rating of vocal quality (P 0.0001). Blinded raters noted a significant improvement in audio (P 0.05) and videostroboscopic (P 0.003) samples after surgery. There were no operative complications observed, and median hospital stay was one night.Patients with presbylaryngis demonstrated significant improvement in both objective and subjective measures of vocal quality following bilateral medialization thyroplasty. These data suggest that medialization thyroplasty is a safe option that warrants consideration in the treatment of presbylaryngis.

Background Laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) can cause persistent or recurrent airway obstruction. Although there is extensive literature on surgical techniques to treat LTS at onset, there are few techniques described for complex adult LTS after failed prior airway surgery. We describe a procedure used successfully in 3 patients who required structural augmentation for complex LTS. Methods Patients were treated with staged reconstruction using a prefabricated composite graft consisting of auricular cartilage and a radial forearm free flap. Results All patients underwent successful reconstruction with good wound healing and are tolerating oral diets. Two patients have been successfully decannulated. Conclusion A delayed prefabricated graft using auricular cartilage in a radial forearm free flap is a viable surgical intervention in patients with complex adult LTS who are not candidates for conventional approaches. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 35: E376–E380, 2013

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is an idiopathic spinal disease common in the elderly and characterized by flowing ossification and osteophyte formation along the spinal column. Cervical hyperostosis is capable of producing dysphagia, stridor, and airway obstruction; however, there are no extant reports of true paralysis of bilateral vocal folds in patients fulfilling the criteria for DISH.We report a case of a 61-year-old man presenting with dysphagia and dyspnea. Flexible laryngoscopy revealed bilateral true vocal fold paralysis. Cervical radiograph showed flowing ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament with preservation of intervertebral disc height. Tracheotomy and cervical osteophytectomy were performed, after which the patient showed improved swallowing and speaking ability and was decannulated without complication.In the case presented, cervical osteophytectomy dramatically reversed bilateral vocal fold paralysis and dysphagia secondary to hyperostosis, thus negating the need for prolonged tracheostomy and feeding tube dependence. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: E1-E3, 2017.

To determine whether the application of laser-assisted techniques for the treatment of Zenker's diverticulum would reduce the failure rate of endoscopic procedures without compromising safety or durability.Cohort study with long-term follow-up.We performed a single-institution review of 106 consecutive patients in whom endoscopic laser-assisted diverticulotomy (ELD) or endoscopic stapler-assisted diverticulotomy (ESD) was attempted. The Eating Assessment Tool was collected pre- and postoperatively. Long-term follow-up was conducted on average 2.4 years postoperatively.The decision to use either ELD or ESD was made intraoperatively. An endoscopic procedure was successfully completed in 103 of 106 patients (97.2%). Eighty-three patients underwent ELD, 20 underwent ESD, and only three required use of an open approach. No serious complications occurred. Postoperatively, there was a significant reduction in dysphagia symptoms. At follow-up, most individuals had dysphagia scores within the normal range (69%) and were eating a regular diet (73%). Fourteen patients (14%) required revision. Compared to historical data from our institution for ESD alone, the addition of ELD resulted in a reduction in the failure rate without an increase in serious complications. Recurrence rates and long-term outcomes were equivalent.Through careful patient selection, appropriate workup, and judicious use of techniques, it was possible to perform endoscopic surgery in a majority of patients without serious complications. Both approaches resulted in short- and long-term symptom management with high levels of satisfaction.4. Laryngoscope, 126:2705-2710, 2016.

Objectives/Hypothesis: Open airway reconstruction is considered definitive treatment of laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS). Although most cases of LTS are not autoimmune, there are few data reported in patients with Wegener's granulomatosis. In this study, we aimed to assess outcomes of airway reconstruction in LTS patients with Wegener's compared to nonautoimmune patients. Study Design: Retrospective chart review of LTS cases managed with open airway reconstruction at an academic medical center. Methods: Patients who underwent open airway reconstruction for LTS due to Wegener's or nonautoimmune causes were identified from 1995 to 2010. Clinical, demographic, and procedural data were recorded. Fisher exact test, Mann-Whitney U test, and McNemar's test were used to test for significance. Results: A total of 53 patients were identified; eight Wegener's, 45 nonautoimmune, with median follow-up time of 8.3 and 1.8 years, respectively. Before reconstruction, there was no statistical difference between Wegener's and nonautoimmune patients with previous dilations (88% vs. 68%, P = .41) and tracheostomy dependence (50% vs. 42%, P = .72). Following reconstruction, 75% Wegener's and 36% nonautoimmune patients required further dilations (P = .05), with a decannulation rate of 75% and 58% (P = 1.0), respectively. Conclusions: Wegener's patients have an increased need for dilations after open airway reconstruction for LTS. However, these patients can be decannulated after surgery at a rate similar to patients with nonautoimmune LTS. Laryngoscope, 121:2566–2571, 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis: To examine the role of HPV status in the etiology, prognosis, and treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in early larynx malignancies. Study Design: Retrospective. Methods: Thirty-eight cases of T1 or carcinoma in situ (CIS) laryngeal lesions were examined for the presence of human papilloma virus (HPV) using an inclusive polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/hybridization technique capable of identifying 37 HPV subtypes. Results: HPV DNA was detected in 6 (16%) of the 38 lesions, representing HPV types 16, 26, 31, 39, and 52, and p16 tumor suppressor protein expression was confirmed in 10 representative cases. This HPV prevalence is higher than that noted in many previous laryngeal cancer studies, possibly due to the relatively large panel of subtypes screened for in this study. Identification of HPV-26, which has been associated with uterine cervical cancer, in an early laryngeal cancer specimen represents the first evidence of this subtype in a laryngeal carcinoma. Consistent with reports focusing on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) arising from other subsites within the upper aerodigestive tract, patients with HPV-positive laryngeal carcinomas were of younger age and were somewhat less likely to have a history of tobacco use, although the latter of the two findings did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: Our findings emphasize the presence of a broad spectrum of HPV types in a relevant proportion of early laryngeal cancers, and together with evidence of an association of HPV tumor status with a more favorable clinical course, provide a rationale for the routine HPV testing of small larynx lesions. Laryngoscope, 2009

Distortion of esophagogastric junction anatomy in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease produces permanent dilation of the gastric cardia proportional to disease severity, but it remains unclear whether this mechanism underlies reflux in patients with isolated laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms. In a prospective study, 113 patients were stratified into three populations based on symptom complex: laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms, typical reflux symptoms, and both laryngopharyngeal and typical symptoms. Subjects underwent small-caliber upper endoscopy in the upright position. Outcome measures included gastric cardia circumference, presence and size of hiatal hernia, and prevalence of esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus within each group. There were no differences in gastric cardia circumference between patient groups. The prevalence of Barrett’s esophagus was 20.4% overall and 15.6% in pure laryngopharyngeal reflux patients. Barrett’s esophagus patients had a greater cardia circumference compared to those without it. In the upright position, patients with isolated laryngopharyngeal reflux display the same degree of esophagogastric junction distortion as those with typical reflux symptoms, suggesting a similar pathophysiology. This indicates that, although these patients may sense reflux differently, they have similar risks as patients with typical symptoms. Further, the identification of Barrett’s esophagus in the absence of typical reflux symptoms suggests the potential for occult disease progression and late discovery of cancer.

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) is a rare and potentially life-threatening disease marked by recurrent and progressive airway obstruction frequently requiring repeated surgery to stabilize the airway. Unknown etiology and low disease prevalence have limited the ability to characterize the natural history of iSGS and resulted in variability in surgical management. It is uncertain how this variation relates to clinical outcomes.Medical record abstraction.Utilizing an international, multi-institutional collaborative, we collected retrospective data on patient characteristics, treatment, and clinical outcomes. We investigated variation between and within open and endoscopic treatment approaches and assessed therapeutic outcomes; specifically, disease recurrence and need for tracheostomy at last follow-up.Strikingly, 479 iSGS patients across 10 participating centers were nearly exclusively female (98%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 96.1-99.6), Caucasian (95%, 95% CI, 92.2-98.8), and otherwise healthy (mean age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index 1.5; 95% CI, 1.44-1.69). The patients presented at a mean age of 50 years (95% CI, 48.8-51.1). A total of 80.2% were managed endoscopically, whereas 19.8% underwent open reconstruction. Endoscopic surgery had a significantly higher rate of disease recurrence than the open approach (chi(2) = 4.09, P = 0.043). Tracheostomy was avoided in 97% of patients irrespective of surgical approach (95% CI, 94.5-99.8). Interestingly, there were outliers in rates of disease recurrence between centers using similar treatment approaches.Idiopathic subglottic stenosis patients are surprisingly homogeneous. The heterogeneity of treatment approaches and the observed outliers in disease recurrence rates between centers raises the potential for improved clinical outcomes through a detailed understanding of the processes of care.4. Laryngoscope, 126:1390-1396, 2016.

High risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a common cause of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, especially in young male nonsmokers. Accurately diagnosing HPV-associated oral cancers is important, because they have a better prognosis and may be treated differently than smoking-related oral carcinomas. Various methods have been validated to test for high risk HPV in cervical tissue samples and they are in routine clinical use to detect dysplasia before it progresses to invasive disease. Similarly, future screening for HPV-mediated oropharyngeal dysplasia may identify patients before it progresses. Our objective was to compare four of these methods in a retrospective series of 87 oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas that had archived fresh-frozen and paraffin-embedded tissue for evaluation. Patient age, gender, smoking history, and tumor location were also recorded. DNA prepared from fresh-frozen tissue was tested for HPV genotypes by multiplex PCR analysis (Diatherix), and high risk HPV screening was done with Hybrid Capture 2 (Qiagen hc2) and Cervista (Hologic). Histologic sections were immunostained for p16 (mtm/Roche). HPV positive outcome was defined as agreement between at least two of the three genetic tests and used for X2 analysis and calculations of diagnostic predictive value. As expected, high risk HPV-positive oral cancers were most common in the tonsil and base of tongue (oropharynx) of younger male (55 years vs 65 years) (p=0.0002) non-smokers (p=0.01). Most positive cases were HPV16 (33/36, 92%). Hybrid Capture 2 and Cervista were as sensitive as PCR and had fewer false positives than p16 immunohistochemistry.

Changes that occur as a natural part of senescence in the complex action of deglutition predispose us to dysphagia and aspiration. As the "baby-boomers" begin to age, the onset of swallowing difficulties will begin to manifest in a greater number of our population. Recent advances in the evaluation of normal and abnormal swallowing make possible more precise anatomical and physiological diagnoses. Coupled with an understanding of swallowing physiology, such detailed evaluation allows greater opportunity to safely manage dysphagia with directed therapy and appropriate surgical intervention. The current study is a discussion of the changes that occur in deglutition with normal aging, contemporary evaluation of swallowing function, and some of the common causes of dysphagia in elderly patients.

Objective: This study aimed to examine the authors’ experience with endoscopic management of idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS), and to identify pulmonary function test (PFT) values that can be used to quantify outcomes. Methods: Retrospective review. Results: Twenty-five patients with a new diagnosis of iSGS were seen between 2006 and 2012. Median age at surgery was 45.3 years (interquartile range [IQR], 38.5-67.0), and median body mass index was 28.7 kg/m2 (IQR, 23.5-32.1). Forty-five procedures were performed. Median preoperative stenosis was 56.8% (Cotton-Myer grade 2). The typical stenosis began 15 mm below the true vocal folds and was 12 mm long. Median follow-up was 21.4 months (IQR, 5.1-43.1). For patients receiving multiple dilations, median time between procedures was 23.7 months. Four PFT parameters demonstrated significant improvement after intervention: (1) PEF (absolute change = 2.54 L/s), (2) PIF (absolute change = 1.57 L/s), (3) FEV1/PEF (absolute change = 0.44), and (4) FIF50% (absolute change = 1.71 L/s). PIF was the only parameter affected by using a larger balloon ( P = .047). Conclusion: PEF, PIF, FEV1/PEF, and FIF50% improved significantly after endoscopic incision and dilation of iSGS, and this could potentially be used as a metric by which to evaluate outcomes in the endoscopic management of subglottic stenosis.

Objectives:Objectively describe the change in glottic airflow following unilateral transverse posterior cordotomy for bilateral true vocal fold paralysis based on peak inspiratory flow rate and pul...

Objectives: We compared the voice outcomes after cricotracheal resection (CTR) and airway dilation in adult women. Methods: We performed long-term comprehensive voice assessments in 23 adult women treated for laryngotracheal stenosis, including acoustic and perceptual measurements of voice, videostroboscopy, the Voice Handicap Index, and an open-ended subjective questionnaire. Results: Voice measures were abnormal in both groups. Objective pitch and loudness measurements were significantly more impaired after CTR than after dilation. Perceptual ratings of voice were worse after CTR than after dilation, particularly with regard to breathiness, pitch, and loudness. The CTR group was more likely to report a voice disorder, reported significantly more voice symptoms, and had higher voice handicap scores. Videostroboscopy was frequently abnormal in both groups, with more evidence of vocal hyperfunction after CTR. Self-ratings of breathing and swallowing were generally high in both groups, but voice satisfaction was rated lower after CTR. Conclusions: Voice was more significantly negatively impacted by CTR than by dilation. Surprisingly, many individuals in both groups reported improvements — A finding that possibly highlights the impact of laryngotracheal stenosis on airflow and vocal function before surgery. The importance of patient selection and preoperative counseling is emphasized, along with the potential need for voice therapy.

Importance Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in surgery patients, but little data exist on the incidence of VTE in head and neck cancer surgical patients. Objective To determine the incidence of VTE in postoperative patients with head and neck cancer. Design, Setting, and Participants A prospective study of 100 consecutive patients hospitalized at a tertiary care academic surgical center who underwent surgery to treat head and neck cancer. Routine chemoprophylaxis was not used. On postoperative day (POD) 2 or 3, participants received clinical examination and duplex ultrasonographic evaluation (US). Participants with negative findings on clinical examination and US were followed up clinically; participants with evidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) were given therapeutic anticoagulation. Participants with superficial VTE underwent repeated US on POD 4, 5, or 6. Participants were monitored for 30 days after surgery. Main Outcome and Measure Total number of new cases of VTE (superficial and deep) identified within 30 days of surgery and confirmed on diagnostic imaging. Results Of the 111 participants enrolled, 11 withdrew before completing the study; thus, 100 participants were included. The overall incidence of VTE was 13%. Eight participants were identified with clinically significant VTE: 7 DVT and 1 PE. An additional 5 participants had asymptomatic lower extremity superficial VTE detected on US alone. Fourteen percent of patients received some form of postoperative anticoagulation therapy; the rate of bleeding complications in these patients (30.1%) was higher than that in patients without anticoagulation therapy (5.6%) ( P = .01). Conclusions and Relevance Hospitalized patients with head and neck cancer not routinely receiving anticoagulation therapy after surgery have an increased risk of VTE. Bleeding complications are elevated in patients receiving postoperative anticoagulation.

Objectives:Eosinophlic angiocentric fibrosis (EAF) is a rare disorder that belongs to the spectrum of IgG4-related diseases (IgG4-RD). We review a case of EAF presenting as a subglottic stenosis.Methods:We discuss the pertinent clinical, radiographic, and histological findings, demonstrating the diagnostic challenges associated with EAF. We review the literature on respiratory tract EAF and discuss the associated management dilemmas when this otherwise benign disease affects critical structures. A 44 year-old female presented a twelve-month history of progressive dyspnea and stridor. A pulmonary function test (PFT) showed flattened inspiratory and expiratory flow loops suggestive of subglottic stenosis. Pre-operative computed tomography (CT) revealed a subglottic mass with cricoid erosion. During endoscopy, a submucosal lesion was noted to involve the conus elasticus and cricoid. The airway was temporized with CO2 laser resection of the mass and dilation.Results:Histology showed an inflammatory infiltrate...

Populations at risk for esophageal adenocarcinoma remain poorly defined. Laryngeal symptoms can be secondary to laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and can occur without associated gastroesophageal reflux symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation.We sought to determine the prevalence of Barrett esophagus (BE) in otolaryngology patients with laryngeal symptoms±typical gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms.We performed a cross-sectional study of otolaryngology clinic patients who reported laryngeal symptoms. Symptoms, medications, and exposure histories were obtained. Unsedated transnasal endoscopy was performed. Suspected BE was biopsied and confirmed histologically. Risk factors and prevalence of BE were assessed.Two hundred ninety-five patients were enrolled [73% male, median age 60 y (interquartile range 51 to 68 y)]. The overall prevalence of BE was 11.8% (n=33). Antisecretory medication use was present in 56% (n=156) of patients at enrollment. Compared with patients without BE, patients with BE were more likely to be male (P=0.01) and to report occupational lung injury (P=0.001). Duration, but not severity of laryngeal symptoms, significantly increased the odds of BE (odds ratio, 5.64; 95% confidence interval, 1.28-24.83; for a duration of symptoms5 y). Of patients with BE, 58% (n=19) had coexisting LPR and GERD symptoms and 30% (n=10) had only LPR symptoms. Presence and size of hiatal hernia and length of columnar-lined esophagus were significant risk factors for BE.Long-standing laryngeal symptoms are associated with the presence of BE in otolaryngology patients. Patients with chronic laryngeal symptoms and no identifiable ear, nose, or throat etiology for those symptoms may benefit from endoscopic screening regardless of whether typical GERD symptoms are present.

To compare and contrast the manifestations and surgical management of subglottic stenosis in patients with airway obstruction attributed to granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), previously known as Wegener granulomatosis, and those with idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS).Retrospective medical chart review. Review of subglottic stenosis cases seen in the otolaryngology department of an academic medical center from 2005 through 2010. Data were obtained on disease presentation, operative management. and findings.Tertiary referral center.A total of 24 patients with iSGS and 15 patients with GPA-associated subglottic stenosis (GPA-SGS).All individuals with iSGS were female, and 40% of patients with GPA-SGS were male (P.01). Patients with iSGS tended to have a higher Myer-Cotton stenosis grade at the time of dilation than those with GPA-SGS (P = .02). Individuals with GPA-SGS were more likely to undergo tracheotomy as a result of disease-related complications than individuals with iSGS (P.01). No patients with an open airway reconstruction in the iSGS group required follow-up mechanical dilation. In contrast, all patients with open airway reconstructions in the GPA-SGS group underwent more than 1 subsequent airway dilation (P.01).While surgical utilization is the mainstay of treatment in iSGS and GPA-SGS, iSGS occurs almost exclusively in females and presents with a greater degree of stenosis at the time of endoscopic dilation. In contrast, GPA-SGS is associated with greater rates of tracheotomy. Open airway reconstruction may be used in the treatment of iSGS and GPA-SGS but is much more effective in iSGS.

Objective: To evaluate presenting symptoms, workup, and management of hypopharyngeal and esophageal injury associated with ACDF.Method: We performed a retrospective review of consecutive cases in a...

Objective: 1) Evaluate the rationale for choice of treatment modality in patients with laryngeal cancer. 2) Compare outcomes among various treatment modalities for patients with laryngeal cancer.Method: A retrospective review was conducted of patients treated for laryngeal cancer between 2006 and 2011. Data were recorded on treatment modality and rationale (radiation therapy (RT), transoral laser microsurgery (TLM), open partial laryngectomy (PL), or total laryngectomy (TL)), and oncologic/functional outcomes. Statistics included chi-square and bonferroni tests.Results: Seventy-nine patients were identified (18 RT, 19 TLM, 20 PL, and 22 TL). TLM was primarily used for early-stage disease, RT and PL for all disease stages, and TL for advanced disease. RT and TL were usually chosen due to tumor extension or patient health precluding conservation surgery. No surgical patients, but 28% of RT patients required permanent tracheostomy. Voice quality was similar for RT and TLM patients, while PL was significantly...

Objective: 1) To determine the incidence of human papilloma virus (HPV) expression in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). 2) To determine the subtypes of HPV associated with laryngeal SCC.Method: Between 2006 and 2011, most new diagnoses of laryngeal SCC at our institution were sent for HPV PCR. A retrospective review was conducted on these patients. The results of this test, patient history, and tumor characteristics were collected. Descriptive statistics and Student’s t test were performed.Results: Thirty patients with laryngeal SCC and an HPV PCR assay were identified. Three patients (10%) were positive for HPV. Subtypes 16, 31, and 59 were identified in these 3 patients. The HPV+ patients exhibited a trend towards less tobacco use (23 pack-years versus 46 pack-years in HPV– patients), although this was not statistically significant (P = .18). There was no significant difference in age between HPV+ and HPV– patients (63.3 years vs 65.8 years, P = .88).Conclusion: Although not as common as in oroph...

Laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) can cause persistent or recurrent airway obstruction. Although there is extensive literature on surgical techniques to treat LTS at onset, there are few techniques described for complex adult LTS after failed prior airway surgery. We describe a procedure used successfully in 3 patients who required structural augmentation for complex LTS.Patients were treated with staged reconstruction using a prefabricated composite graft consisting of auricular cartilage and a radial forearm free flap.All patients underwent successful reconstruction with good wound healing and are tolerating oral diets. Two patients have been successfully decannulated.A delayed prefabricated graft using auricular cartilage in a radial forearm free flap is a viable surgical intervention in patients with complex adult LTS who are not candidates for conventional approaches.

Background Supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL) is an option for laryngeal cancer resection that preserves laryngeal function; however, little information exists regarding factors that are associated with functional outcomes. Methods A medical chart review was performed on patients that underwent SCPL at our institution between 2006 and 2011. Data were collected on surgical, voice, and swallowing outcomes. Results Eighteen patients were identified. Thirteen underwent cricohyoidoepiglottopexy (CHEP) and 5 had a cricohyoidopexy (CHP). Mean follow-up was 737 days. On average, decannulation occurred at 27.4 days and feeding tube removal at 87.9 days postoperatively. Sixty-seven percent of patients tolerated an unrestricted diet at follow-up. Increased age and a CHP procedure were associated with negative outcomes. Age may be a proxy for more extensive disease and prior treatments. Conclusion Patients who undergo an SCPL require extensive rehabilitation after surgery. Those who have undergone multiple cancer interventions and have more extensive surgery may be at risk for poorer outcomes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 35: 1397–1403, 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis: To describe the otolaryngologic presentation and natural history of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), previously known as Wegener's granulomatosis, and to compare otolaryngologic outcomes of patients with systemic GPA to those with a limited form of GPA confined to the head and neck. Study Design: Retrospective chart review. Methods: Review of GPA cases (identified by serology, biopsy, or clinical presentation) seen in the otolaryngology department of an academic medical center. Results: A total of 24 patients were identified; each patient was followed for an average 6.8 years. Sinusitis and subglottic stenosis were the most commonly observed head and neck manifestations at diagnosis, seen in 64% and 36%, respectively. Over time, disease spread to additional sites in more than half the cohort (n = 14), but only two of 13 patients with disease initially limited to the head and neck developed pulmonary disease, and none developed renal disease. Cumulatively, otitis media was more likely to be observed in patients with systemic disease (P = .04). Patients with localized (n = 12) and systemic (n = 12) GPA did not have significantly different rates of surgical interventions (0.55 vs. 0.72 surgical interventions/patient-year of follow-up, respectively, P = .19). Conclusions: GPA has a variety of head and neck manifestations, most commonly sinusitis, nasal disease, subglottic stenosis, and otitis media. GPA commonly progresses to involve additional sites, regardless of the extent of disease. These patients require frequent surgical intervention, and the clinician should remain vigilant for progression of disease.

Open airway reconstruction is considered definitive treatment of laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS). Although most cases of LTS are not autoimmune, there are few data reported in patients with Wegener's granulomatosis. In this study, we aimed to assess outcomes of airway reconstruction in LTS patients with Wegener's compared to nonautoimmune patients.Retrospective chart review of LTS cases managed with open airway reconstruction at an academic medical center.Patients who underwent open airway reconstruction for LTS due to Wegener's or nonautoimmune causes were identified from 1995 to 2010. Clinical, demographic, and procedural data were recorded. Fisher exact test, Mann-Whitney U test, and McNemar's test were used to test for significance.A total of 53 patients were identified; eight Wegener's, 45 nonautoimmune, with median follow-up time of 8.3 and 1.8 years, respectively. Before reconstruction, there was no statistical difference between Wegener's and nonautoimmune patients with previous dilations (88% vs. 68%, P = .41) and tracheostomy dependence (50% vs. 42%, P = .72). Following reconstruction, 75% Wegener's and 36% nonautoimmune patients required further dilations (P = .05), with a decannulation rate of 75% and 58% (P = 1.0), respectively.Wegener's patients have an increased need for dilations after open airway reconstruction for LTS. However, these patients can be decannulated after surgery at a rate similar to patients with nonautoimmune LTS.

Objective: Laryngotracheal stenosis can severely alter anatomy and leave patients with airway compromise. The majority of patients can be managed with conservative or open surgical procedures. Occasionally patients cannot be reconstructed with local tissues. We describe our experience with a prefabricated composite free flap to reconstruct patients with complicated laryngotracheal stenosis.Method: Case series of 2 patients with severe laryngotracheal stenosis treated with a prefabricated composite graft consisting of auricular cartilage and a radial forearm free flap. Both patients had compromised local tissue due to extensive neck surgery, previous radiation therapy, or chronic inflammation.Results: The prefabricated cartilage free flap allowed for a customized reconstruction. Prefabrication, implantation of the cartilage into the arm 6 weeks prior to flap harvest, maintained the integrity of the vascular cartilage graft. Furthermore, this reconstructive method provided satisfactory cosmetic and function...

Objective: 1) Evaluate the long-term voice and swallowing outcomes of supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL). 2) Determine the effect of prior radiation therapy on voice and swallow outcomes.Method: A retrospective chart review was performed on all patients that received SCPL at our institution between 2006 and 2010. Multiple parameters measuring voice and swallowing outcomes were recorded where available and descriptive statistics performed. Chi-square and Student t-test analysis were performed with P < .05 used to denote significance.Results: Fourteen patients were identified, including 2 cricohyoidopexies and 11 cricohyiodoepiglottipexies. Mean follow-up was 650 ± 470 days. Decannulation occurred at 30 ± 16 days and feeding tube removal at 87 ± 43 days postoperatively. All patients tolerated regular diets and thin liquids. Maximum phonation time was 10.6 ± 6.1 sec, F0 was 161.7 ± 75.7 Hz, VHI was 35.6 ± 16.1, and CAPE-V dysphonia score was 56.3 ± 11.0. Comparing previously irradiated patients with th...