Laryngeal (larynx) cancer treatment depends on several key factors, including the tumour’s location, the stage of the disease, the patient’s health, and the importance of voice preservation. Treatment of laryngeal (larynx) cancer today is highly individualised. Doctors use a mix of medical science, surgery, and rehabilitation to give each patient the best possible outcome.
The main treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. These may be used alone or in combination. The goal is to remove or destroy the cancer while preserving speech, swallowing, and breathing. In early-stage cases, cure rates are high, and most patients can keep their natural voice. Advanced cancer usually needs stronger treatment.
Surgical Options for Treating Laryngeal (larynx) Cancer
Surgery plays a major role, especially for localised tumours or when radiotherapy is not suitable. Surgical choices vary depending on where the tumour is and how far it has spread.
Laser surgery (transoral laser microsurgery) is a common method for early-stage glottic cancers. This minimally invasive technique removes the tumour through the mouth using a laser. It avoids external cuts, preserves the voice, and allows quick recovery.
Partial laryngectomy removes only part of the larynx, aiming to save structure and function. Some patients can still speak and swallow without needing a permanent stoma (a neck opening for breathing).
Total laryngectomy becomes necessary for large or invasive tumours. This surgery removes the entire larynx and creates a permanent stoma. Natural speech is no longer possible. However, many patients regain their ability to speak using speech therapy or a voice prosthesis.
Neck dissection may also be done to remove lymph nodes in the neck if cancer has spread there.
Recovery after surgery needs a team approach. ENT surgeons, speech therapists, nutritionists, and mental health professionals all play a part.
Radiotherapy in Treatment of Laryngeal (larynx) Cancer
Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often the main treatment in early-stage laryngeal (larynx) cancer, especially when preserving the voice is important. Sometimes, radiotherapy is used on its own, with no need for surgery.
Treatment usually takes several weeks and is done on an outpatient basis. Side effects may include sore throat, dry mouth, hoarseness, tiredness, and taste changes. These symptoms often improve after treatment ends, but some people may have lasting voice or swallowing issues.
In more advanced cases, doctors may combine radiotherapy with chemotherapy. This approach, called chemoradiotherapy, can help save the larynx without surgery. However, it can be harder on the body and needs a longer recovery.
Role of Chemotherapy in Treatment of Laryngeal (larynx) Cancer
Chemotherapy uses strong drugs to stop cancer cells from growing. It is not the first choice for early-stage laryngeal (larynx) cancer but becomes important in later or inoperable stages.
Chemotherapy may be used:
- With radiotherapy to save the larynx (chemoradiation)
- Before surgery or radiotherapy to shrink the tumour (neoadjuvant therapy)
- After surgery or radiation to kill leftover cancer cells (adjuvant therapy)
- As palliative care for advanced cancer to reduce symptoms
Drugs like cisplatin, fluorouracil, and carboplatin are common. Side effects include nausea, fatigue, weak immunity, and hair loss. Supportive care helps patients manage these effects.
Newer Therapies in Treatment of Laryngeal (larynx) Cancer
Some patients with advanced or recurring cancer may receive newer treatments like targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
Cetuximab is a targeted drug that blocks a protein (EGFR) that helps cancer cells grow. It can be used with radiation.
Immunotherapy, such as nivolumab, helps the immune system find and kill cancer cells. It is mainly used when other treatments fail.
Rehabilitation After Treatment of Laryngeal (larynx) Cancer
Speech and swallowing therapy is vital after treatment, especially for those who had surgery. Patients who had a partial or total laryngectomy may need help learning to speak again.
Options include:
- Voice prosthesis: A device that creates voice by connecting the trachea and oesophagus
- Oesophageal speech: Learning to make sound by swallowing and releasing air
- Electrolarynx: A handheld device that makes sound outside the body, shaped into speech by the mouth
Swallowing therapy may be needed if eating muscles or nerves were affected. Some people may need soft diets or temporary feeding tubes during recovery.
Psychological Care in Treatment of Laryngeal (larynx) Cancer
A laryngeal (larynx) cancer diagnosis is difficult, especially when it affects speech or appearance. Emotional support is a key part of care. Counselling, support groups, and mental health services help patients cope with stress and body changes. This support is especially important for those adjusting to life with a stoma.
Follow-up and Lifestyle Changes After Treatment of Laryngeal (larynx) Cancer
Quitting smoking is vital during and after treatment. Smoking reduces success rates, slows healing, and increases the risk of more cancers. Cutting down on alcohol is also advised.
Long-term follow-up is needed to check for cancer return, treat side effects, and offer continued rehab. Follow-up plans often include scopes, imaging tests, and blood work based on individual needs.
In summary, treatment of laryngeal (larynx) cancer depends on the tumour’s size, location, and spread. Most patients need a mix of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and rehab. The main goal is to cure the cancer while saving speech and swallowing. With early diagnosis and proper care, many people recover well and maintain a good quality of life.
