Outcomes of surgical versus non-surgical treatment of resectable T4a laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinoma

ObjectiveSurgery is the recommended treatment for resectable T4a laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinoma. Non-surgical treatment is an option in a select few patients.MethodThis retrospective study was undertaken to assess the treatment outcomes in patients with resectable T4a carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx who received either surgical or non-surgical treatment at our institute and to assess factors influencing these outcomes.ResultsA total of 120 patients were included in the study. They were divided into groups A, B and C based on the presence of extralaryngeal spread through laryngeal membrane, cartilage or both. The overall survival was better among patients who received surgery than those who received non-surgical treatment in the three groups. The factor influencing overall survival was the treatment given in the form of surgical versus non-surgical treatment.ConclusionSurgery is the preferred treatment for T4a laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinoma, even in patients with extralaryngeal spread without cartilage erosion.