A Novel Approach for the Treatment of Intractable Aspiration After Supracricoid Laryngectomy

Objectives: This manuscript aims to present a novel and successful intervention for intractable aspiration following a supracricoid laryngectomy (SCL) that may avoid the need for total laryngectomy in patients experiencing intractable aspiration after SCL. Study design: This report describes a novel approach to treat intractable aspiration and feeding tube-dependency due to an incomplete posterior apposition of the laryngeal surface of the epiglottis to the arytenoids after a SCL in a 67-year-old man. Methods: The right and left aryepiglottic folds and the median glossoepiglottic fold were denuded using a CO2 laser. Then, an arytenoepiglottopexy was completed by placing 4-0 Vicryl between the lateral aspect of the epiglottis and arytenoids; thus, approximating these structures. Results: Two weeks after surgery, fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing demonstrated improved closure of the larynx upon swallowing with great upgrading in the Penetration-Aspiration scale (PAS). PAS improved from a 6 to 2, corresponding to, transient penetration for moderately thick liquids and puree solids. He also demonstrated improved secretion management and airway protection. Following a 4-week course of intensive dysphagia therapy, a modified barium swallow revealed a significant improvement in airway protection, with a PAS score of 1 (no airway invasion). Conclusions: Chronic aspiration is a life-threatening condition that can severely reduce patients' quality of life. Despite the use of current therapeutic approaches, a subset of patients will remain plagued by persistent symptoms. We introduce an innovative, simple, and quick endoscopic technique that offers benefit in controlling aspiration after SCL.

Automated summary

This manuscript describes a novel endoscopic technique for treating intractable aspiration following supracricoid laryngectomy (SCL). The technique improves laryngeal closure and airway protection, offering potential benefits for patients' quality of life.