Vocal Function Following Frontolateral Laryngectomy

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate smoothed cepstral peak point and laryngostrobosopic results in patients who underwentfrontolateral laryngectomy (FLL).Methods: Eight patients who underwent FLL with bilateral modified radical neck dissection, and who completed at least 12 months of followup, were included. All patients underwent laryngostroboscopic evaluation at study commencement; glottal closure was examined. Voicerecords were taken at fundamental frequency (Fo) and smoothed cepstral peak point were analysed. Voice handicap index-10 was requestedto be completed. Ten healthy individual constituted control group. Results were compared.Results: The smoothed cepstral peak points were between 1.81-2.42 in the FLL group and 4.6-6.06 in controls, a significant difference.The Fo ranged from 61 to 192.63 Hz in the FLL group and from 118.57 to 197.61 Hz in the control group, also a significant difference.Laryngostroboscopy revealed significant differences between-group in their closure. Seven patients had incomplete closure in FLL group andthe entire control group had complete closure except one female patient who had posterior glottal gap (p=0.01). Voice handicap index-10results were between 31-40 in FLL group and 8-14 in control group and also revealed a significant difference.Conclusion: FLL reduces smoothed cepstral peak point and affects the mucosal wave, reducing voice quality.