Untreated Cleft Palate a Unique Surgical Contraindication in Carcinoma of the Pyriform Fossa

Abstract

Background/objectives: Swallowing problems following total laryngectomy are significantly lesser compared to other partial laryngectomies as a permanent seperation between the trachea and esophagus is seen in the earlier. Sometimes, the patient complains of difficulty in propelling bolus through the oral cavity and pharynx as a result of the loss of hyoid bone, which is the anchor for the tongue. The increased pressure in the narrowed pharyngoesophageal segment following laryngectomy requires the tongue to move with greater force.