Primary radiotherapy of laryngeal cancer

The larynx plays an irreplaceable role in the production of voice (phonation), breathing and swallowing. Therefore, it is very important to maintain its function, which is closely related to the quality of life of patients with carcinomas in this area. The treatment strategy for laryngeal cancer depends on the stage of the disease. In early stages (I, II) larynx-sparing surgery or primary radiotherapy is standard of care. In locoregionally advanced stages (III, IVA,B) for operable tumours the standard is surgery - partial or total laryngectomy with postoperative radiotherapy or radiochemotherapy. In the case of inoperable tumours non-surgical modalities - radiotherapy and chemotherapy in various combinations or alone are indicated. Non-surgical modalities may also be used for operable tumours with functional larynx in terms of a larynx-preservation approach. (author)