When is tumour removal surgery recommended for voice box cancer?

The larynx contains the vocal cords and helps protect the airway during swallowing. Examination with a camera, scans, and tissue findings show whether the tumour is on a vocal cord, above or below it, or has reached nearby structures. Some operations remove only part of the larynx; others remove the whole voice box. The team discusses how each option may affect voice, breathing, swallowing, and the need for a neck opening or reconstruction. Radiotherapy or medicine may also be considered.

Ask whether the aim is to preserve the larynx or remove it completely, and how the plan affects speech and swallowing. Discuss voice rehabilitation, an electrolarynx or other communication aid, breathing through a stoma if relevant, nutrition support, and care after discharge. Tell the team about smoking, lung disease, dental issues, medicines, and any recent change in swallowing or breathing.

Get urgent help for noisy or difficult breathing, inability to swallow saliva, choking, coughing blood, rapidly worsening neck swelling, or severe weakness. After surgery, seek prompt assessment for a blocked or displaced airway device, heavy bleeding, fever with increasing wound redness, or sudden loss of the ability to breathe or swallow.

Where is the cancer within the larynx? Can a partial operation preserve breathing and swallowing? What voice options would follow each operation? Would radiotherapy or medicine be suitable? How will airway and nutrition needs be managed during recovery?