Stomal recurrence after total laryngectomy for squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx

OBJECTIVE. Stomal recurrence after total laryngectomy is one of the most serious Issues in the management of laryngeal carcinoma. The management of stomal recurrence, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, has been reported as unsatisfactory. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: From 1985 to 1995, 69 patients underwent total laryngectomy for the treatment of laryngeal cancer at the University of Tokyo Hospital. To identify the risk factors for stomal recurrence, we analyzed these patients according to various clinicopathological factors. RESULTS: Stomal recurrence developed in 6 of 69 patients who underwent total laryngectomy for laryngeal carcinoma. Statistical analysis reveals that primary site, preoperative tracheotomy, and paratracheal lymph node metastasis are significant risk factors for stomal recurrence. CONCLUSION: Intensive follow-up should be performed for patients with glottic carcinoma who had preoperative tracheotomy, paratracheal lymph node metastasis, or both to detect stomal recurrence at an early stage.