LARYNGECTOMY

This surgical procedure involves the total or partial removal of the LARYNX, depending on the type of cancer, and in some cases, it may require the removal other adjacent organs such as the pharynx, the base of the tongue, or the thyroid.

The larynx is the organ of phonation (voice/sound production) and is singular. It is in the lower and central part of the neck and corresponds to the Adam’s apple. Its function is to produce one’s voice. The incision for a laryngectomy is u-shaped and goes from a point behind the ear, down to the root of the neck and back to the same point on the opposite side. On average, it measures 15-20 cm in length, but it may vary in each case.
This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. It is always necessary to leave a drainage tube for 2-3 weeks to avoid the accumulation of postoperative fluids. Hospitalization lasts 7-15 days in most cases, and the stitches removed 10-15 days after surgery.

This surgical procedure is only performed in cancer cases and aimed at removing the entire tumor. It is hoped that this will prevent its growth and spread to the lymph nodes of the neck or other parts of the body. In some cases, supplemental treatment with radiotherapy and chemotherapy is needed.