Linear Stapler in Total Laryngectomy

摘要

Introduction: Stapler application for pharyngeal closure after total laryngectomy allows rapid watertight closure. We intend to report the experience of the Portuguese Oncology Institute of Lisbon, Francisco Gentil (IPOLFG). Material and Methods: Retrospective study of patients submitted to total laryngectomy using linear stapler device treated in IPOLFG from 2005 to 2010. Results: 108 patients were studied. The majority of patients were male, aged from 60 to 69 years old, and had smoking and alcohol habits. The average length of hospital stay was 13.1 days. Post-operative complications occurred as follows: wound infection in 6.5%, cervical hematoma in 4.6% and pharyngocutaneous fistula in 11.1% of cases. Conclusions: The mechanical suture of the pharynx in total laryngectomy is a simple and quick method. It does not increase the incidence of post-operative complications. It seems to be a very safe method, as long as its limits regarding the location and extent of tumour are respected.