Oncologic outcomes of total laryngectomy: Impact of margins and preoperative tracheostomy

Background The purpose of this present study was to investigate risk factors for local recurrence and death after total laryngectomy, with particular emphasis on pattern of local recurrence (stomal vs pharyngeal/base of tongue) and impact of preceding tracheostomy. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 75 consecutive total laryngectomies for cancer of the larynx. Results Nineteen patients underwent preoperative tracheostomy, which was a significant risk factor for local recurrence (p =.04). With regard to pattern of local recurrence, preoperative tracheostomy (p =.03) and pathological nodal status (pN+; p =.04) were significant for stomal, but not pharyngeal recurrence; whereas positive margins (p =.01) was significant for pharyngeal, but not stomal recurrence. Preoperative tracheostomy, pN+, lymphovascular invasion, and positive margins were all significant for survival. Conclusion Preoperative tracheostomy continues to be a significant adverse prognosticator in patients undergoing total laryngectomy. Our findings also suggest distinct causative factors for different patterns of postlaryngectomy local recurrence.