Quality of life and voice outcome of patients treated with transoral CO2 laser microsurgery for early glottic carcinoma (T1-T2): a 2-year follow-up study

PurposeLongitudinal studies in laryngeal cancer can provide clinicians information about short-term and long-term functional outcomes, like quality of life (QoL) and voice outcome. This information is important when counseling patients or choosing a primary treatment modality. The present study assessed long-term (2years) QoL and voice outcome in patients with extended T1 and limited T2 glottic carcinoma treated with transoral CO2 laser microsurgery (TLM) (unilateral type III or bilateral type II resections).MethodsThree questionnaires were administered: the Voice Handicap Index (VHI), the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QoL questionnaire (QLQ)-C30, the EORTC QLQ-HN35. A perceptual voice evaluation at six different time points was conducted: preoperatively, and postoperatively at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2years. Fluctuations over time were investigated.ResultsSixty-one patients were included in the analysis. Patients reported high-level functioning and low symptom scores 2years postoperatively. Gender significantly affected the VHI scores at 2years (mean VHI scores: female 8.7 vs. male, 23.9; p=0.023). The major improvement in VHI scores was observed within the first 6months. The tumor stage (T1a, T1b, and T2) significantly impacted the grade (mean scores at 2years: 1.0, 1.9, and 1.7; p=0.001). These scores stabilized at 6months.ConclusionsPatients show good long-term QoL with low symptom scores, a low voice handicap, and mild to moderate dysphonia, 2years postoperatively. Scores stabilize at 6months and provide a clear indication of status at 1 and 2years.