Endoscopic management of hypopharyngeal stenosis after organ sparing therapy for head and neck cancer

Swallowing Function After Treatment of Laryngeal Cancer

Dysphagia is a common functional outcome following treatment of laryngeal cancer. Despite curative advances in both nonsurgical and surgical approaches, preserving and optimizing swallowing function is critical. Understanding the nature and severity of dysphagia depending on initial tumor staging and treatment modality and intensity is crucial. This chapter explores current evidence on the acute and chronic impacts of treatments for laryngeal cancer on swallow function, as well as the medical and nonmedical management of dysphagia in this population.

Retrograde endoscopic dilatation for difficult caustic esophageal strictures: Feasibility and effectiveness

BACKGROUND

Difficult caustic esophageal strictures may need a more sophisticated dilatation technique before referring for esophageal replacement surgery.

PATIENTS & METHOD

Retrospective review of caustic esophageal strictures managed at our center between January 2010 and June 2018 was done. Twenty two patients labeled as undilatable strictures were enrolled. These patients had another trial for endoscopic dilatation using retrograde approach.

RESULTS

Among these 22 patients, 5 patients could be dilated by antegrade approach. Seventeen patients had a trial of retrograde dilatation after failed antegrade endoscopy. Retrograde dilatation was successful in 14 patients (82%). Nasogastric tube was left following dilatation in 4 patients to facilitate next sessions. Collectively, 19 out of the 22 patients could have their esophagus dilated in the first instance (86%). Among retrograde dilated patients; eight patients succeeded to retain their native esophagus (57%), two patients are still on dilatation with marked improvement (14%), and three patients underwent colon interposition owing to refractory stricture despite frequent dilatations.

CONCLUSION

Every attempt should be tried to preserve the native esophagus. Retrograde endoscopic dilatation is a valuable alternative for undilatable stricture before referring the patient for replacement surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

This is a case series with no comparison group (level IV).

Endoscopic Management of Postradiation Dysphagia in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review the success rate and safety profile of the available endoscopic surgical options for radiation-induced dysphagia in head and neck cancer patients following organ preservation treatment, including upper esophageal sphincter (UES) dilation, cricopharyngeus (CP) myotomy (CPM), and CP intramuscular botulinum toxin (Botox) injection.

METHODS

A search of MEDLINE, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases was done to identify articles published between January 1980 and December 2017. Pediatric series, foreign language articles, series with Zenker's diverticulum or following primary surgical treatment including laryngectomy, open UES/CP surgery, or samples with fewer than 5 patients were excluded.

RESULTS

An initial search identified 539 articles. All titles and abstracts were reviewed. One hundred and sixteen potentially relevant articles were inspected in more detail, and 14 retrospective studies met eligibility criteria. Dilation group included 10 studies on anterograde and/or retrograde dilation, with an overall 208 patients. Success rate ranged from 42% to 100%. The endoscopic CPM group included 3 studies with a total of 36 patients, and the success rate ranged from 27% to 90%. In the Botox group, 1 one study with 20 patients met our inclusion criteria, with an overall 65% success rate (13/20). Major complications were only reported in the dilation group, which included esophageal perforation and death.

CONCLUSIONS

The lack of consistency across trials indicates insufficient evidence for guiding clinical practice. This systematic review suggests the need for greater standardization of outcomes and instruments. Future prospective evaluation should use validated patient-rated and clinician-rated assessment tools to optimally measure postoperative swallowing outcomes of head and neck cancer dysphagic patients following organ preservation therapy.

Total Pharyngo-esophageal Stenosis: A New Surgical Procedure Using Modified Retrograde Transillumination Approach

We performed a modified combined anterograde-retrograde dilatation in a 60-year-old woman with complete pharyngo-esophageal stricture (PES). With a large endoscopic view from the upper (laryngoscope) and lower (pediatric gastroscope introduced via gastrostomy tube) parts of the PES, the approach consisted of a retrograde puncture of the complete PES by transillumination to take the guide coming from the pediatric endoscope. The guide was pulled through the mouth and the PES dilatation was made using successive boogies of various diameters through the guide. Finally, a salivary bypass was placed to maintain the diameter of the pharyngo-esophageal way. The surgical approach was performed in 25 minutes without short, medium, and long-term complications. The patient started oral alimentation the day after the surgery, and the salivary bypass was removed after 6 months. The subject had no recurrence of the PES at 5 years.

Enteral Nutrition Support of Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Patients with head and neck cancer are at high risk for malnutrition due to dysphagia from the tumor and treatment. Despite difficulty with oral intake, these patients usually have a normal stomach and lower gastrointestinal tract. Enteral nutrition support via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) administered in the home by the patient helps to prevent weight loss, dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, treatment interruptions, and hospitalizations. It also improves quality of life. Successful management of these patients requires orderly care and follow-up by a multidisciplinary nutrition team.

Dysphagia after Sequential Chemoradiation Therapy for Advanced Head and Neck Cancer

OBJECTIVES: Assess impact of sequential chemoradiation therapy (SCRT) for advanced head and neck cancer (HNCA) on swallowing, nutrition, and quality of life.

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort study of 59 patients undergoing SCRT for advanced head and neck cancer. Follow-up median was 47.5 months.

SETTING: Regional Cancer Center.

RESULTS: Median time to gastrostomy tube removal was 21 weeks. Eighteen of 23 patients who underwent modified barium swallow demonstrated aspiration; none developed pneumonia. Six of 7 with pharyngoesophageal stricture underwent successful dilatation. Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—Head and Neck Scale questionnaires at median 6 months after treatment revealed “somewhat” satisfaction with swallowing. At the time of analysis, 97% have the gastronomy tube removed and take soft/regular diet.

CONCLUSION: Early after treatment dysphagia adversely affected weight, modified barium swallow results, and quality of life. Diligent swallow therapy, and dilation as needed, allowed nearly all patients to have their gastronomy tubes removed and return to a soft/regular diet.

SIGNIFICANCE: Dysphagia is significant after SCRT but generally slowly recovers 6 to 12 months after SCRT.

Comparison of swallowing function after intensity-modulated radiation therapy and conventional radiotherapy for head and neck cancer

BACKGROUND

Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is hoped to protect structures important for swallow function. We compared posttreatment swallow function in 7 pairs of patients with head and neck cancer treated with either IMRT or conventional radiotherapy (RT).

METHODS

Patients were matched on tumor characteristics. Swallowing function was evaluated with the modified barium swallow procedure pretreatment and at 3 and 6 months postcancer treatment completion. Swallows were analyzed for bolus transit times, bolus residues, laryngeal closure (LAC) duration, cricopharyngeal opening (CPO) duration, and oropharyngeal swallow efficiency (OPSE). Data were analyzed using multifactor repeated measures analysis of variance and adjusted for baseline function.

RESULTS

Main effect of radiation type was significant for all measures on at least 1 bolus type. Patients treated with IMRT demonstrated shorter bolus transit times, less oral and pharyngeal residue, longer LAC, and larger OPSE.

CONCLUSION

Patients treated with IMRT demonstrated faster, more efficient swallows, and greater airway protection.

Successful Use of Esophageal Stent Placement to Treat a Postoperative Esophageal Stricture in a Toddler

Esophageal atresia (EA) is the most common type of gastrointestinal atresia. The most common variant (type C) consists of a blind esophageal pouch with a fistula between the trachea and the distal esophagus. Surgical repair can be complicated by the development of benign stricture. Most strictures are amenable to dilation, but refractory strictures may require surgical intervention. A 24-month-old boy born with tracheoesophageal fistula and EA underwent surgical repair on day 1 of life. He developed esophageal stricture that responded to esophageal stent placement. Endoscopic biliary accessories can be safely used to dilate refractory esophageal strictures in children, and should be considered prior to seeking other complex alternatives.

Utility of the transnasal esophagoscope in the management of chemoradiation-induced esophageal stenosis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe management of esophageal stenosis after chemoradiation therapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), with particular emphasis on techniques and outcomes with the use of the transnasal esophagoscope (TNE) in the office as well as operating room settings.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of all patients with esophageal stenosis following head and neck cancer radiation, with or without chemotherapy, and managed with TNE-assisted esophageal dilation over a 5-year period. Preoperative and postoperative swallowing function were assessed objectively with the Functional Outcome Swallowing Scale (FOSS; ranging from score 0, a normal diet, to score 5, complete dependence on nonoral nutrition).

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients met inclusion criteria. The mean pretreatment FOSS score was 4.4, whereas the mean posttreatment FOSS score was 2.7 (Wilcoxon signed-rank test, P<.001). Prior to dilation, 16 patients were completely gastrostomy-tube dependent (FOSS 5), of whom 12 (75%) were able to tolerate oral nutrition for a majority of their diet following treatment according to our protocol. No complications were noted.

CONCLUSION

Dysphagia following chemoradiation therapy for HNSCC is often related to esophageal stenosis. With the aid of TNE, we have developed a successful treatment strategy for esophageal stenosis with improved success rates.

Management of a postradiation esophageal web in the setting of a coexisting Zenker's diverticulum

We present a case of postradiation obstructive esophageal web, seen in the setting of a coexisting Zenker's diverticulum, that was treated with combined anterograde and retrograde esophagoscopy puncture and dilation. We also review the relevant literature. Obstructing esophageal webs and stenoses are well-documented complications seen in patients with head and neck cancer treated with radiation therapy. For thin webs, combined anterograde and retrograde esophagoscopy along with puncture and dilation can be a relatively safe treatment option for selected patients. The presence of a coexisting Zenker's diverticulum may predispose the patient to the development of postradiation esophageal complications and make subsequent assessment more difficult to perform.

Prevention and management of treatment-induced pharyngo-oesophageal stricture

Pharyngo-oesophageal stricture (PES) is a serious complication that occurs in up to a third of patients treated with external beam radiotherapy or combined chemoradiotherapy for head and neck cancer. This entity is under-reported and as a result, our understanding of the pathophysiology and prevention of this complication is restricted. This Review presents the knowledge so far on radiation-related and non-radiation-related risk factors for PES, including tumour stage and subsite, patient age, and comorbidities. The interventions to decrease this toxicity are discussed, including early detection of PES, initiation of an oral diet, and protection of swallowing structures from high-dose radiation. We discuss various treatment options, including swallowing exercises and manoeuvres, endoscopic dilatations, and for advanced cases, oesophageal reconstruction. Study of the subset of patients who develop this toxicity and early recognition and intervention of this pathological change in future trials will help to optimise treatment of these patients.

Success of endoscopic pharyngoesophageal dilation after head and neck cancer treatment

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To assess clinical success and safety of endoscopic pharyngoesophageal dilation after chemoradiation or radiation for head and neck cancer and to identify variables associated with dilation failure.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

METHODS

Between 2000 and 2008, a total of 111 patients treated with chemoradiation or radiation for head and neck cancer with subsequent pharyngoesophageal stenosis requiring endoscopic dilation were identified. Patients were evaluated for endoscopic dilation technique, severity of stenosis, technical and clinical success, and intra- and postoperative complications. The Diet/GT score (range, 1-5) was utilized to measure swallow success. Variables associated with dilation failure were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

There were 271 dilations analyzed, with 42 combined antegrade retrograde dilations, 208 dilations over a guidewire, and 21 dilations without guidewire. Intraoperative patency and successful dilation of the stenotic segment was achieved in 95% of patients. A Diet/GT score of 5 (gastrostomy tube removed and soft/regular diet) was attained in 84 of 111 (76%) patients. Safety analysis showed complications occurred in 9% of all dilations. Perforations were noted in 4% of all procedures, with only two esophageal perforations requiring significant intervention. Multiple dilations were associated with an increased risk for perforations. Further logistic regression analyses revealed that the number of dilations was indicating a poor outcome and low Diet/GT score.

CONCLUSIONS

Pharyngoesophageal stenosis, occurring after chemoradiation and radiation treatment, can be successfully and safely treated with endoscopic dilation techniques. Patients with restenosis, requiring multiple dilations, have a higher risk of persistent dysphagia.

Hypopharyngeal presentation of cicatricial pemphigoid: videofluorographic and direct laryngoscopic findings

Objective:

Cicatricial pemphigoid can affect all mucosa of the upper aerodigestive tract; however, hypopharyngeal involvement is less frequent.

Case report:

This paper presents a 69-year-old male diagnosed as having cicatricial pemphigoid who was experiencing difficulty swallowing. Videofluorography with barium swallow demonstrated narrow flow through the medial hypopharynx, but not through the lateral hypopharynx. Direct laryngoscopy revealed that the postcricoid hypopharyngeal lumen had become narrow due to circumferential scar formation. Interestingly, detached thin membranous webs were observed beyond the circumferential scar.

Conclusion:

This report describes important videofluorographic and direct laryngoscopic findings showing rare hypopharyngeal involvement in a case of cicatricial pemphigoid.

Endoscopic lumen restoration for obstructive aphagia: outcomes of a 25-year experience

BACKGROUND

After chemoradiation therapy for head/neck cancer, some patients develop strictures that progress to complete pharyngoesophageal occlusion. Total lumen occlusion is less often due to other conditions. Enteral access (enterostomy tube) and good nutritional status tend to minimize the significance of dysphagia and therefore may mask recognition of impending complete lumen occlusion.

OBJECTIVE

Review outcomes of a 25-year experience with endoscopic lumen restoration (ELR) in 30 patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective, case review study.

SETTING

Two tertiary-care referral centers.

PATIENTS

This study involved 30 consecutive patients referred for obstructive aphagia due to complete lumen occlusion, primarily after chemoradiation therapy for head/neck cancer.

INTERVENTION

Antegrade and retrograde endoscopy with tri-plane fluoroscopy for penetrating the occluded segment, serial retrograde and antegrade dilations, plus swallowing rehabilitation therapy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Restoration of lumen patency, swallowing function, and removal of enteral feeding tube.

RESULTS

ELR was successful in 30 patients in 31 of 33 attempts (93%). Return to soft to regular diet was achieved in 15 of 30 patients (50%), and fluids to pureed food with partial percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy nutrition was achieved in 5 of 30 patients (17%). Ten of 30 patients (33%) were considered unsafe for oral feeding because of oropharyngeal neuromotor deficits. Complications occurred in 5 of 30 patients (17%), with no prolonged sequelae, deaths, or surgery, but two stents were placed for anastomotic fistulas. The median duration of follow-up was 22.75 months.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective, case review study.

CONCLUSION

ELR by using tri-plane fluoroscopic guidance with antegrade and retrograde endoscopy and serial dilations allows lumen restoration and swallowing to some degree in a majority of patients. Engagement of a core team of specialists can provide optimal restoration of swallowing function.

Endoscopic management of complete colonic obstruction

A patient with metastatic rectal cancer underwent a diverting transverse loop colostomy due to rectal obstruction. 16 months later, he underwent a low anterior resection to resect his rectal cancer along with reversal of his transverse colostomy, and creation of a temporary loop ileostomy. Six months later, he was brought to the operating room for closure of his ileostomy. Post-operatively, the patient developed nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distention and imaging revealed a large bowel obstruction, confirmed by colonoscopy. The patient refused surgical diversion and a cecostomy tube was placed for decompression. After maturation of the cecostomy fistula, a rendezvous colonoscopy was performed, retrograde through the rectum and antegrade through the cecostomy fistula. The obstructing mucosa was traversed and the site of obstruction was balloon dilated, relieving the obstruction endoscopically.

Factors affecting the success of endoscopic bougia dilatation of radiation-induced esophageal stricture

AIMS

The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess clinical outcomes of endoscopic bougie dilation of esophageal strictures after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, and to assess the risk factors which affect the treatment success.

METHODS

Thirty-one patients with esophageal stricture due to radiation therapy were treated with endoscopic bougie dilation. The following parameters were evaluated; age, gender, primary site of the tumor, initial treatment of the tumor, prescribed dose of radiation, the time to onset of esophageal stricture after radiation therapy, grade of esophageal stricture according to clinical and endoscopic findings, number of dilatations, recurrence of esophageal stricture, and the result of the therapy.

RESULTS

The average follow-up was 26 months with a range of 1-84 months. Successful endoscopic bougie dilation was achieved in 26 of 31 patients. The median time to onset of esophageal stricture after radiation therapy was significantly shorter in patients who did not respond to endoscopic bougie dilation.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic bougie dilation is a safe and effective procedure for the management of radiation-induced esophageal stricture. Time to onset of esophageal stricture is the most important factor for the treatment success. In addition, the total prescribed dosage of radiation has minimal effects on the result of endoscopic bougie dilation.

Total neopharyngeal stenosis following pharyngolaryngo-oesophagectomy with gastric interposition: Successful recanalisation using a transcervical radiologically guided technique

INTRODUCTION

Pharyngo-oesophageal stricturing is common following treatment of head and neck cancers. Absolute dysphagia secondary to total stenosis, although rare, is particularly debilitating and presents a significant therapeutic challenge. We present a strategy for managing total neopharyngeal stenosis following pharyngolaryngo-oesophagectomy (PLOG).

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 71-year-old female developed total neopharyngeal stenosis following PLOG with gastric interposition for squamous cell carcinoma of the proximal cervical oesophagus/post-cricoid. A transcervical, percutaneous, radiologically guided procedure was performed to restore lumenal patency, which enabled resumption of oral feeding.

DISCUSSION

Established treatments for pharyngo-oesophageal strictures are frequently limited by complications in patients with complex strictures or total stenoses. Whilst several interventions have been described, recent interest has focussed on combined antegrade/retrograde endoscopic procedures dilating a pre-existing gastrostomy site for access. This was not possible in our patient due to the surgically altered anatomy which posed a unique therapeutic challenge.

CONCLUSION

This is the first reported percutaneous, transcervical, radiologically guided technique to treat neopharyngeal stenosis following PLOG. It demonstrates a novel and efficacious approach which may be considered in the management of this rare but significant complication.

Management of complete esophageal stricture after treatment of head and neck cancer using combined anterograde retrograde esophageal dilation

BACKGROUND

Complete esophageal stricture is a difficult problem to manage. There is limited literature to support clinical decision-making. To evaluate outcomes and efficacy, we performed a retrospective medical chart review of patients who received combined anterograde retrograde esophageal dilation (CARD) between 2002 and 2009 at our institution.

METHODS

Fifteen patients were identified who developed a stricture requiring CARD after treatment for head and neck cancers. Outcomes were pretreatment and posttreatment diet, gastrostomy tube status, and operative complications.

RESULTS

Six of 15 patients were gastrostomy tube-free at last follow-up and 11 of 15 patients were taking oral nutrition. There were 4 complications. One patient died. Two gastrostomy tube site complications occurred. One patient sustained a dental injury.

CONCLUSION

CARD offers benefit to most patients. Despite risks associated with the procedure, CARD should be considered by the clinician and patient in management of complete esophageal stricture.

Fatal central venous air embolism: a rare complication of esophageal dilation by rendezvous

BACKGROUND

Esophageal dilation by rendezvous is a useful technique for the treatment of complicated esophageal strictures.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We present a case of a 74-year-old man with chronic dysphagia caused by a complete cervical esophageal stricture that developed after external beam radiotherapy for treatment of papillary thyroid carcinoma. During attempted dilation using the rendezvous technique, the patient suffered a fatal pulmonary air embolism. The technique of esophageal dilation by rendezvous, complications, and risk factors for development of venous air embolism are discussed.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report in the literature of fatal venous air embolism after dilation by rendezvous.

Combined antegrade and retrograde esophageal dilation for head and neck cancer-related complete esophageal stenosis

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Assess the safety and efficacy of combined antegrade and retrograde esophageal dilation (CARD) for complete esophageal stenosis following head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. Review HNC dysphagia management.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of all patients undergoing CARD following HNC treatment between May 2001 and September 2008.

METHODS

Forty-five patients were identified for review. Parameters assessed included: ability to obtain intraoperative esophageal patency, complications, number of dilations required, diet, and gastric tube (GT) status. Factors associated with dilation failure were analyzed.

RESULTS

Intraoperative esophageal patency was obtained in 91% of patients. Median number of all dilations per patient was three. Median number of CARDs per patient was one. Resumption of oral intake occurred in 36/45 (80%). Diet results included: regular or soft diet 32/45 (71%), GT removal 27/45 (60%), and GT dependence with nothing by mouth 9/45 (20%). Laryngeal and pharyngeal stenosis, radionecrosis, tracheotomy dependence, and elongated stenosis were associated with dilation failure. Complications occurred in 18/63 (29%) CARD procedures: eight pneumomediastinum, seven GT site problems, two esophageal perforations, and one pharyngeal infection. All complications resolved spontaneously or with minimal interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

CARD was safe and effective. Intraoperative patency was achieved in 91% of patients. Eighty percent resumed oral intake. The majority of patients had their GTs removed and resumed a soft or regular diet. Dilation failure was associated with laryngeal, pharyngeal, and excessively long esophageal stenosis, often resulting from radionecrosis. Complications were minor. CARD should be considered before relegating patients with complete esophageal stenosis to chronic GT dependence or subjecting them to laryngopharyngo esophagectomy.

Rehabilitation of dysphagia following head and neck cancer

Patients who have cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, or larynx may be treated with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these modalities. Each treatment type may have a negative impact on posttreatment swallowing function; these effects are presented in this article. A number of rehabilitative procedures are available to the clinician to reduce or eliminate swallowing disorders in patients treated for cancer of the head and neck. The various procedures-including postures, maneuvers, modifications to bolus volume and viscosity, range-of-motion exercises, and strengthening exercises-and their efficacy in patients treated for head and neck cancer are discussed.

Endoscopic management of upper esophageal strictures after treatment of head and neck malignancy

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia, usually due to proximal esophageal strictures, is a debilitating complication of therapy (surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy) for head and neck malignancy. Scant attention has been given in the literature to the endoscopic management of these proximal esophageal strictures.

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to assess the technical and functional outcomes of endoscopic management of proximal esophageal strictures after therapy for head and neck cancers.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Consecutive patients undergoing endoscopy and dilation of proximal esophageal strictures caused by chemoradiation or surgery for head and neck malignancy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENT

Technical and functional success after endoscopic dilation.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were included. The mean age of patients was 70.4 years (range 42 to 82 years). The primary tumor site was larynx in 10 patients, oropharynx or hypopharynx in 4 patients, upper esophagus in 4 patients, and other sites in the remainder. Technical success (a luminal diameter of 42F or greater) was achieved in 80% of patients. Adequate dysphagia relief was achieved in 84% of patients whose esophageal stricture was dilated at least up to 42F. The average follow-up was 22 months (range 1-96 months). Repeat dilation was needed in 58% of patients. No complications or death occurred during the study period.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design and highly selected patient population. Dysphagia assessment in conjuction with a speech pathologist was not performed in all patients. Results may not be applicable to other settings.

CONCLUSION

In this case series, proximal esophageal strictures after treatment of head and neck malignancy were amenable to antegrade endoscopic dilation; however, no patient in our study had complete lumen obstruction. Repeat dilations are often needed and are effective in achieving and maintaining adequate dysphagia relief.

Successful use of biliary accessories in antegrade dilation of complex upper esophageal stricture due to chemoradiation and surgery

Endoscopic management of complete or near complete upper esophageal strictures is challenging. Current methods such as retrograde esophageal access are high risk and may require additional abdominal surgery. A biliary cannulation technique with a 0.035 inch guidewire was utilized to obtain antegrade esophageal access in a patient with near complete high esophageal stricture due to chemo radiation and surgery for head and neck cancer. Biliary accessories including bougie and balloon dilators were used for the initial dilation of the esophageal stricture, followed by the traditional approach of stricture dilation using over-the-wire dilators. The procedure was successfully performed in a patient with near complete upper esophageal stricture due to chemo radiation and surgery for recurrent laryngeal cancer. The dysphagia of this patient was resolved following serial esophageal dilations and his esophageal stricture was wide open on the last upper endoscopy. Biliary accessories can be safely used for obtaining antegrade esophageal access and dilation of near complete upper esophageal strictures. This approach should be considered in patients with complex esophageal strictures, especially after chemo radiation or surgery for head and neck cancer and prior to seeking other more complex alternatives involving retrograde esophageal access.

Multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment: focus on head and neck cancer

This article focuses on squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), the most common malignancy of the head and neck area. Early detection limits morbidity of treatment and increases the chances of a cure. The treatment of SCCHN is often multidisciplinary in nature and provides a model for how multimodality therapy may be applied for optimal patient management. The role of surgery in SCCHN is continually undergoing evolution, and the surgeon's role in the multidisciplinary treatment of head and neck cancers has changed as more cancers are being treated by chemoradiotherapy. Salvage surgery has become more common, and with it the increased challenges in managing metastatic disease to neck nodes as well as managing failure of organ preservation treatments. Surgeons continue to develop and refine reconstruction techniques to optimize cosmetic and functional outcomes.

Evaluation and management of swallowing dysfunction following chemoradiation for head and neck cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Concurrent chemoradiation offers excellent local control and survival for patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer while allowing anatomic organ preservation. Treatment toxicity is significant, however, often resulting in long-term dysphagia and aspiration. We review the prevalence of post-treatment swallowing dysfunction, describe current thinking about its pathogenesis and management, and signal possible directions for future research.

RECENT FINDINGS

Apoptosis from chemoradiation induces abnormal motility of the upper aerodigestive tract, resulting in stasis of the bolus in all phases of the swallow, and resulting in aspiration when the larynx is not protected during swallow. Long-term scarring may result in stenosis of the upper digestive tract. Recent findings suggest the role of transforming growth factor beta 1 in the pathogenesis of normal tissue damage and late scarring induced by radiation. Aspiration is often silent, and therefore a modified barium swallow or videofluoroscopy are required for its diagnosis. Swallowing therapy may improve swallowing efficiency and reduce the aspiration rate, and should be started immediately.

SUMMARY

Successful management of swallowing dysfunction following chemoradiation is a complex undertaking requiring a team approach. Collaboration among different specialists (physicians, speech pathologist, dietitian, and psychologists) remains the key to a desirable outcome.

RADPLAT: an alternative to surgery?

Head and neck cancer frequently presents at a late stage, leading to a poor prognosis despite optimal treatment with surgery and/or radiotherapy. Chemotherapy for advanced disease has shown little benefit as a single-modality treatment, and the use of concurrent chemoradiation is limited by problems with severe toxicity at higher doses. RADPLAT is the acronym used to describe a new technique, combining intra-arterial delivery of cisplatin with systemic neutralization by i.v. sodium thiosulphate, and concurrent radiotherapy. This allows very high cisplatin dose intensities to be used while potentially minimizing adverse systemic effects. Initial results suggest that excellent locoregional control rates are achievable in patients with unresectable disease, with a favorable side-effect profile when compared with conventional chemoradiation protocols. In addition, RADPLAT may potentially be of benefit in selected patients with resectable disease, allowing for preservation of organ function and quality of life without compromising locoregional control or survival. While current phase II data are encouraging, phase III randomized controlled trials are required in order to directly compare RADPLAT with i.v. chemoradiation therapy, the current standard of care. This article reviews the evolution of the RADPLAT concept, from initial clinical trials to its current application in the treatment of patients with advanced head and neck cancer.

Endoscopic retrograde dilation of completely occlusive esophageal strictures

BACKGROUND

Completely occlusive esophageal strictures may develop after head and neck radiotherapy or esophagectomy with gastric or colonic interposition. Major surgical intervention may be required to restore alimentary tract patency when endoscopic lumen reconstitution is not feasible by routine antegrade endoscopy. Retrograde endoscopic lumen identification and dilation is a useful method to reestablish alimentary tract patency, thereby avoiding surgical intervention.

METHODS

Patients requiring endoscopic dilation for completely occlusive esophageal strictures were identified by the gastroenterology, thoracic, and head and neck services. Retrograde access was obtained by balloon dilation of either a jejunostomy or gastrostomy tract, and an endoscope was passed to the area of stricture. Antegrade and retrograde endoscopy were performed simultaneously. A guidewire was passed either retrograde or antegrade under direct endoscopic visualization, followed by antegrade Savary dilation under fluoroscopic guidance.

RESULTS

From 2003 to 2006, 9 patients were identified with completely occlusive esophageal strictures requiring retrograde lumen identification and dilation. Stricture developed in 6 patients after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer and in 3 after esophagectomy with either gastric or colonic interposition for esophageal cancer. Endoscopic dilation was successful in all patients, without perforation.

CONCLUSIONS

Retrograde endoscopic lumen identification and dilation is an option to reestablish lumen patency of completely occlusive esophageal strictures after esophagectomy with gastric or colonic interposition or after head and neck chemoradiotherapy.

Concurrent weekly docetaxel and concomitant boost radiation therapy in the treatment of locally advanced squamous cell cancer of the head and neck

PURPOSE

In a Phase I/II trial, we investigated concurrent weekly docetaxel and concomitant boost radiation in patients with locally advanced squamous cell cancer of the head and neck (SCCHN) after induction chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients presented with American Joint Committee on Cancer Stage III/IV and were treated initially with induction chemotherapy using cisplatinum/5-fluorouracil (PF), carboplatinum-5-FU, or docetaxel-PF. Patients then received docetaxel four times weekly with concomitant boost (CB) radiation (1.8 Gy once-daily X20, 1.8/1.5 Gy twice a day). Fifteen patients each received 20 mg/M2 and 25 mg/M2.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients were enrolled and 30 were evaluable for response and toxicity. Median follow-up was 42 months (range, 27-63 months). Primary sites were: oropharynx 19, oral cavity 2, larynx/hypopharynx 5, and unknown primary 4. Eighty-seven percent of patients had N2/N3 disease; 60% had T3/T4 disease. Twenty percent of patients had a complete response (CR) to induction chemotherapy. After chemoradiotherapy, 21 of 30 patients had a CR, 2 had progressive disease, and 7 had partial response (PR). Nineteen of 26 patients presenting with neck disease had neck dissections, and 7 of 19 were positive. Ninety-three percent of all patients were rendered disease-free after all planned therapy. Treatment failed in 8 patients, and 7 have died of disease. An additional patient died with no evidence of disease. Twenty-one patients (70%) are currently alive with no evidence of disease. No acute dose-limiting toxicity was observed at either dose level.

CONCLUSIONS

This intensive treatment regimen of concurrent docetaxel/concomitant boost radiation and surgery after induction chemotherapy in poor prognosis patients yields good local regional control and survival. Docetaxel/CB chemoradiotherapy represents an aggressive alternative regimen to platinum-based chemoradiotherapy or surgery in patients who have a poor response to induction chemotherapy.

Prevention of hypopharyngeal stenosis with silastic sheeting following transoral resection

Hypopharyngeal stenosis following transoral laser microresection (TLM) of hypopharyngeal carcinomas is a rare but devastating complication. Early oral intake and insertion of a nasogastric feeding tube have been thought to prevent stenosis after surgery. However, though rare, severe dysphagia can be caused by hypopharyngeal stenosis following TLM despite preventive efforts. We suggest a new way to prevent hypopharyngeal stenosis by using silastic sheeting with a feeding tube. This stent was inserted in three patients who underwent extensive TLM of hypopharyngeal carcinomas. This technique will help in the treatment and prevention of hypopharyngeal stenosis following TLM in selected patients with wide or circumferential hypopharyngeal tumors.

The evolving role of surgery in the management of head and neck tumors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This paper reviews recent surgical contributions to the multidisciplinary approach to head and neck cancer treatment as well as published data on pertinent questions in the field.

RECENT FINDINGS

The role of surgery in the strategy of organ preservation via chemoradiation, including treatments of complications and locoregional recurrences, such as when N1-N3 necks should be operated on and the role of CT and positron emission tomography (PET) scanning. Also covered are the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy for the detection of occult micrometastases in the N0 neck and the value of fluorodeoxyglucose PET scanning combined with the former. Transoral laser surgery for tumors of the larynx or of the hypopharynx is discussed, as is a new technique of reconstruction involving the anterolateral thigh free flap. Also included are quality of swallowing after resections and reconstruction of the oral cavity and orpharyngeal tumors.

SUMMARY

Surgery must define its role in the multidisciplinary treatment of advanced cancers, which currently often favors (chemo)radiotherapy protocols. Organ sparing by transoral laser surgery for laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer has established itself within our armamentarium and its exact role will be further refined. Larger and well-executed studies on sentinel lymph node biopsy in the clinically negative neck are needed before this procedure can be implemented in our routines. The latest addition, the anterolateral thigh flap, to further decrease patients' morbidity is unlikely to completely replace the currently favored radial forearm flap in soft tissue replacement of the head and neck. Outcome analysis, including swallowing, is a major step that surgeons should further investigate.