Glottic laryngeal carcinoma with fixed vocal cord treated with full-dose radiation, total laryngectomy or combined treatment

The results of the therapy of 46 patients with glottic squamous cell cancer with a fixed vocal cord and without regional lymph nodes (glottic T3N0) are reported. Primary surgery (total laryngectomy) in combination with preoperative irradiation gave significantly higher loco-regional control rate and survival rate than surgery alone. Primary radiotherapy with doses of 70 Gy or more and adequate follow-up was found to be an alternative to preoperative radiation and laryngectomy. The result of different treatment modalities speaks in favour of primary irradiation allowing preservation of the larynx and a good voice function. In case of recurrence salvage surgery with total laryngectomy is preferred.