Reconstruction of laryngeal function by thyroid cartilage fenestration and draw-out resection followed by internal fixation with titanium microplates for early glottic carcinoma: a novel and efficient surgical approach.

Objective: To explore the clinical effectiveness of reconstructing laryngeal function using thyroid cartilage fenestration and "draw-out" resection, supplemented by internal fixation with titanium microplates in early glottic carcinoma.

Methods: Data from 99 patients with glottic carcinoma treated in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University between January 2014 and September 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Forty-eight patients who underwent thyroid cartilage fenestration and resection followed by internal fixation with titanium microplates for laryngeal function reconstruction were assigned to the thyroid cartilage fenestration group (TCF group), while the other 51 patients who underwent sternohyoid muscle and fascia repair for laryngeal function reconstruction were assigned to the sternohyoid muscle repair group (SMR group). Patients were followed up for 1-8 years. Data on postoperative phonatory function, respiratory function, swallowing function, and survival status were collected.

Results: Compared to the SMR group, patients in the TCF group showed better postoperative recovery in phonatory function and verbal communication (all P<0.05). In the TCF group, patients demonstrated stable respiration and the extubation rate was 100.00%, which was significantly higher than 82.35% in the SMR group (P<0.05). Patients in both groups showed good postoperative recovery of swallowing function (P>0.05).

Conclusion: One-stage reconstruction of laryngeal function by thyroid cartilage fenestration and "draw-out" resection with adjuvant internal titanium microplate fixation in early glottic carcinoma demonstrates good postoperative recovery and good preservation of the laryngeal function.