THE PLACE OF RADIOTHERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THE SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA OF THE SUPRAGLOTTIC LARYNX

Abstract

Two hundred and sixty-seven squamous cell carcinomas of the supraglottic larynx have been analyzed according to the sites of origin and methods of treatment. Radiation therapy gives good results in patients with small cancers and moderately extensive exophytic lesions and has the advantage of preserving good laryngeal function. Patients with large infiltrative cancers are best treated by laryngectomy and radical neck dissection. Postoperative irradiation improves the survival rates for patients with advanced primary lesions and/or extensive neck disease.