UTAHLARYNGOLOGY

Larynx Cancer

 

Tobacco exposure and cigarette smoking is the single biggest risk factor for development of larynx cancer.  Please, if you haven't yet, find a way to quit now.  We can provide some local resources to help.

 

Larynx cancer can develop initially on the vocal cords, on the supraglottic structures (epiglottis, aryepiglottic folds, arytenoid cartilages), or more rarely in the subglottis.  The location of larynx cancer may contribute to a variety of symptoms including hoarseness, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, and ear pain.

 

The treatment for larynx cancer will depend on the stage and progression of the cancer.  The main treatment choices for larynx cancer are surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of any of the three.  Each of these treatment modalities has its own advantages and disadvantages.  The best treatment for your particular cancer will best be discussed with your provider.

 

Dr Meacham has had specialized training to perform partial laryngectomy procedures, where in most centers the only choice of treatment may be total laryngectomy or chemotherapy with radiation, which can be quite toxic.  Dr Meacham will discuss with you the best treatment for your particular cancer.