The neck after total laryngectomy: CT study.

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Computed tomographic [CT] scans in 23 patients who had undergone total laryngectomy [for laryngeal neoplasms] were analyzed retrospectively to determine normal postoperative appearance and to evaluate the role of CT in assessing recurrent neoplasm. Nine patients without clinical evidence of recurrence illustrated the normal postoperative changes: a round or void neopharynx connecting the base of the tongue with the cervical esophagus and intact fat planes surrounding the neopharynx, neurovascular bundles, and sternocleidomastoid muscles. In the 12 patients with recurrent neoplasm, the CT manifestations included masses involving the interval jugular lymph node chain (adjacent to the neopharynx, neurovascular bundles, or sternocleidomastoid muscles), tracheostomy site, or paratracheal region. Recurrence was mimicked on CT in 2 patients, one with an abscess and one with metastases from an adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site. In 8 patients, a distended neopharyngeal lumen correlated with benign or malignant stricture. CT supplemented physical examination and indirect mirror examination, providing data regarding presence and extent of recurrent tumor and aiding in planning the mode and scope of therapy.