Larynx preservation: what is the best non-surgical strategy?

Abstract

The concept of larynx preservation in locally advanced laryngeal or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma has evolved during the last three decades, especially with the advancement of nonsurgical strategies. These nonsurgical strategies include: (1) radiotherapy alone; (2) concomitant chemoradiotherapy (CCRT); and (3) induction chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy or CCRT and concurrent anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). To date, the best approach for larynx preservation has yet to be defined. In this article, we review and discuss important recent randomized phase II/III trials investigating larynx preservation in order to facilitate the selection of an appropriate strategy in the clinical setting. However, the decision of larynx preservation should always be a multidisciplinary approach.

Keywords: Concomitant; Induction chemotherapy; Larynx preservation; Radiotherapy; Targeted therapy.