A study of the pharynx after laryngectomy

Abstract

The structure of the [human] pharynx when reconstructed after total laryngectomy merits careful study, as it may have a bearing on post-operative complications. Certain features of this neopharynx have already been described. An anterior out-pouching sometimes appears at the junction of the base of the tongue and the pharynx. When the posterior wall of the pouch is prominent, it appears like an epiglottis and hence is termed as a pseudoepiglottis. An increased incidence of post-operative pharyngocutaneous fistula and dysphagia has been correlated with the presence of this pouch (Kirchner et al., 1963). An increase in the width of the retropharyngeal space, as visualized radiologically, is said to be an early indication of recurrence of malignancy (Jung and Adams, 1980).