Synopsis of transoral endoscopic laryngopharyngeal surgery for superficial pharyngeal cancers.

Abstract

Endoscopic laryngopharyngeal surgery (ELPS) was developed for superficial pharyngeal cancers in Japan. In this study, we present our results of ELPS for superficial pharyngeal cancers. From November 2009 to December 2015, 258 patients with superficial pharyngeal cancers underwent ELPS. Results, including survival rates, postoperative complications, and vocal function, are reviewed. The median follow-up period of 258 patients was 31 months. The overall and cause-specific survival rates over 3 years were 85.7% and 100%, respectively. Only 3 patients incurred local recurrences and were successfully salvaged by re-ELPS. Regarding postoperative complications, 4 patients required reoperation because of postoperative bleeding. As for the postoperative quality of life, no patients developed vocal fold paralysis. Every patient was able to consume meals at preoperative levels. ELPS is a feasible and minimally invasive treatment for superficial pharyngeal cancers with impressive quality of life results.