Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term swallowing status and the high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) pulmonary findings of chronic aspiration in patients who have undergone supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL), to demonstrate that SCPL causes a mild and well-tolerated degree of chronic aspiration, allowing the patient to avoid a nothing-by-mouth status.
Methods
Retrospective medical record review. Cohort study. Case series. The follow-up period ranged from 3 to 13 years. 116 patients treated with SCPL were analyzed. The patients included in the study were NED, were followed for more than 3 years, were without tracheal cannula or nasogastric tube, and able to feed orally. A group of 20 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and normal deglutition was used as a control. Evaluation of postoperative swallowing disorders included a careful observation of the patients by the physician, fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), and videofluoroscopy (VFS). Clinical grading of postoperative aspiration was assessed according to the Leipzig and Pearson scale. The radiological manifestations of chronic aspiration were recorded at high resolution computed tomography (HRCT).
Results
A higher incidence of pulmonary consolidation was found in the patients affected by postoperative chronic aspiration, compared to the control group (p<0.001). No significant differences were noted between the control group and the dysphagic group regarding the remaining radiological findings.
Conclusions
SCPL causes a mild and well-tolerated degree of chronic aspiration, determining low functional impairment and allows the patient a good quality of life.
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