Throat Cancer: Transoral Laser Microsurgery

During Transoral Laser Microsurgery (TLM), the surgeon places a lighted viewing scope through the patient's mouth and into the throat providing direct access to the cancer.  No external incision is needed, minimizing the impact of the procedure on the patient. The physician aims the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser beam at the affected tissue and the intense beam of robotically controlled light allows for precise excision of cancer cells.

The precise soft-tissue handling of the laser enables the surgeon to craft a margin of normal tissue around the tumor without damaging important nerves, blood vessels and surrounding structures of the voice-box and throat.

Because there is little bleeding, the surgeons have a clear field of vision during the procedure.  With the TLM procedure, patients generally experience less swelling and a lower risk of infection than is expected with conventional open surgery.

Radiation therapy is often used as a first line treatment for early stage throat cancer. However, new data and studies demonstrate the advantages of using TLM as an alternative to radiation therapy to preserve speech and functionality.(1) Patients who are treated with TLM typically have a lower risk of some of the radiation side effects that can occur. As with all the major treatment options for throat cancer, side effects can include the ability to speak normally, breathe easily, swallow or eat solid food. Benefits of TLM include:

• Equally or superior oncologic and functional outcomes for early stage laryngeal cancer as compared to radiation therapy.
• Treatment options remain open in case of failed therapy
• Speedier and easier recovery, with faster return to work and daily life
• May eliminate the need for a feeding tube or a tracheotomy (a direct airway in the windpipe)
• The surgeon can often cure cancer while preserving the best possible quality of life