Pathology-based staging for HPV-positive squamous carcinoma of the oropharynx

OBJECTIVE

The rapid worldwide rise in incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has generated studies confirming this disease as an entity distinct from traditional OPSCC. Based on pathology, surgical studies have revealed prognosticators specific to HPV-positive OPSCC. The current AJCC/UICC staging and pathologic nodal (pN)-classification do not differentiate for survival, demonstrating the need for new, HPV-specific OPSCC staging. The objective of this study was to define a pathologic staging system specific to HPV-positive OPSCC.

METHODS

Data were assembled from a surgically-managed, p16-positive OPSCC cohort (any T, any N, M0) of 704 patients from five cancer centers. Analysis was performed for (a) the AJCC/UICC pathologic staging, (b) newly published clinical staging for non-surgically managed HPV-positive OPSCC, and (c) a novel, pathology-based, "HPVpath" staging system that combines features of the primary tumor and nodal metastases.

RESULTS

A combination of AJCC/UICC pT-classification and pathology-confirmed metastatic node count (⩽4 versus ⩾5) yielded three groups: stages I (pT1-T2, ⩽4 nodes), II (pT1-T2, ⩾5 nodes; pT3-T4, ⩽4 nodes), and III (pT3-T4, ⩾5 nodes), with incrementally worse prognosis (Kaplan-Meier overall survival of 90%, 84% and 48% respectively). Existing AJCC/UICC pathologic staging lacked prognostic definition. Newly published HPV-specific clinical stagings from non-surgically managed patients, although prognostic, showed lower precision for this surgically managed cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Three loco-regional "HPVpath" stages are identifiable for HPV-positive OPSCC, based on a combination of AJCC/UICC primary tumor pT-classification and metastatic node count. A workable, pathologic staging system is feasible to establish prognosis and guide adjuvant therapy decisions in surgically-managed HPV-positive OPSCC.

Distant metastasis in p16-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: a critical analysis of patterns and outcomes

OBJECTIVE

With good loco-regional control, disease failure in p16-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) mainly results from distant metastasis (DM). Our objective was to characterize the patterns and clinical outcomes of DM in p16-positive OPSCC and compare these to patients with p16-negative disease.

METHODS

Primary OPSCC patients who developed DM after completing surgical or non-surgical treatment were identified and p16 status was evaluated. Patterns of DM and post-DM progression-free (PFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) were assessed.

RESULTS

Forty-one of the 66 (62%) patients with DM were p16-positive. DM patterns were not statistically different by p16 status. However, p16-positive patients developed DM later in their course and had longer survival. All p16-negative patients either had progression or died within 24 months of DM detection whereas the 2-year post-DM PFS in the p16-positive group was 20% (95% CI: 8-32.5%, p=0.003). The 3-year post-DM disease-specific survival (DSS) estimate in the p16-positive patients was 16% (95% CI: 7-18%) while all p16-negative patients died within 34 months (p<0.001). p16-negativity, loco-regional disease, and no/palliative versus curative intent treatment were all associated with reduced post-DM DSS in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The DM pattern did not differ remarkably between p16-positive and negative OPSCC patients in our practice. In p16-positive OPSCC with pulmonary oligometastatic disease, curative intent treatment and optimized locoregional control for the index primary prolonged survival.

Laryngeal transplantation in 2005: a review

There is no good surgical, medical or prosthetic solution to the problems faced by those with a larynx whose function is irreversibly damaged by tumor or trauma. Over the past 10 years, the pace of research designed to establish laryngeal transplantation as a therapeutic option for these persons has increased steadily. The biggest milestone in this field was the world's first true laryngeal transplant performed in Cleveland, Ohio in 1998. The recipient's graft continues to function well, in many respects, even after 7 years. However, it has also highlighted the remaining barriers to full-scale clinical trials. Stimulated by these observations, several groups have accumulated data which point to answers to some of the outstanding questions surrounding functional reinnervation and immunomodulation. This review seeks to outline the progress achieved in this field by 2005 and to point the way forward for laryngeal transplantation research in the 21st century.

Free flap reconstruction of the head and neck: analysis of 241 cases

OBJECTIVE

We undertook this study of free flap reconstruction of the head and neck to stratify patients and procedures, to determine how donor site preference changed over time, to assess medical and surgical outcomes, and to identify variables associated with complications.

METHODS

We analyzed computerized medical records from 236 patients who underwent a total of 241 reconstructions at a tertiary academic medical center in St. Louis between 1989 and 1998. We created a more detailed retrospective database of 141 of those patients by using 48 perioperative variables and 7 adverse outcome measures. Multivariate statistical models were used to analyze associations between variables and outcomes.

RESULTS

The fibula became the preferred donor site for mandibular reconstruction, and the radial forearm became the preferred donor site for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction. For the 241 procedures, the mortality rate was 2.1%, the median length of stay was 11 days, and the flap survival rate was 95%. Administration of more than 7 L of crystalloid during surgery and age over 55 were associated with major medical complications. Blood transfusion, prognostic comorbidity, and number of surgeons correlated with length of stay. Cigarette smoking and receipt of more than 7 L of crystalloid during surgery were associated with overall flap complications, and weight loss of more than 10% before surgery, more than one operating surgeon, and cigarette smoking were associated with major flap complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk to patients and transferred tissue is low in free flap head and neck reconstruction. Age, smoking history, and weight loss should be considered during patient selection. Fluid balance should be considered during and after surgery. Division of labor for patient care should be carefully delineated among surgeons in a teaching setting.

Delayed regional metastases, distant metastases, and second primary malignancies in squamous cell carcinomas of the larynx and hypopharynx

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of delayed regional metastases, distant metastases, and second primary tumors on the therapeutic outcomes in squamous cell carcinomas of the larynx and hypopharynx.

STUDY DESIGN

Chart review and statistical analysis.

METHODS

A retrospective tumor registry analysis was made of patients with squamous cell carcinomas of the larynx and hypopharynx who were treated with curative intent in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and the Radiation Oncology Center of the Washington University School of Medicine (St. Louis, MO) between January 1971 and December 1991 and developed delayed regional metastases (2 y after treatment), distant metastases, and second primary malignancies.

RESULTS

In 2550 patients, the mean age (59.8 y), sex (8.5 male patients and 1 female patient), and tumor differentiation did not affect the incidence of delayed distant, regional, or second primary malignancies. The overall incidence of delayed regional metastases was 12.4% (317/2550 patients); distant metastases, 8.5% (217/2550); and second primary tumors, 8.9% (228/2550), with a 5-year disease-specific survival of 41%, 6.4%, and 35%, respectively. Second primary malignancies were not statistically related to the origin of the primary tumor, tumor staging, or delayed regional and distant metastases (P =.98). Delayed regional metastases and distant metastases were related to advanced primary disease (T4 stage), lymph node metastases (node positive [N+]), tumor location (hypopharynx), and locoregional tumor recurrence (P < or =.028). Advanced regional metastases at initial diagnosis (N2 and N3 disease) increased the incidence of delayed and distant metastases threefold (P =.017). These two metastatic parameters were significantly greater in hypopharyngeal tumors than in laryngeal tumors (P =.037). The incidences of delayed regional metastases by anatomical location of the primary tumor were as follows: glottic, 4.4%; supraglottic, 16%; subglottic, 11.5%; aryepiglottic fold, 21.9%; pyriform sinus, 31.1%; and posterior hypopharyngeal wall, 18.5%. The incidences of distant metastases were as follows: glottic, 4%; supraglottic, 3.7%; subglottic, 14%; aryepiglottic fold, 16%; pyriform fossa, 17.2%; and posterior hypopharyngeal wall, 17.6%. Seventeen hypopharyngeal tumors (2%) presented with M1 disease. Delayed regional metastases to the ipsilateral treated neck had a significantly worse survival prognosis than delayed metastases to the contralateral nontreated neck (P =.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusions are as follows: 1) The incidence of second primary tumors is independent from the primary tumor staging and distant and delayed regional metastases. The highest incidence occurred in patient groups with the highest disease-free survival rates (P =.0378). 2) Highest incidence of delayed and distant metastases occurred in hypopharyngeal tumors and was three times greater than in laryngeal cancers (P =.028). 3) Salvage therapeutic rates were poor for delayed metastases to the ipsilateral treated nodes and distant metastases as compared with contralateral neck metastases and second primary tumors (P =.001). 4) Delayed and distant lymph node metastases were significantly higher in advanced primary disease (T4 stage), locoregional recurrences, and regional disease (N2 and N3) (P =.028) in both the larynx and hypopharynx. 5) The higher incidence of delayed and distant metastatic disease was related to more advanced initial tumor presentation in hypopharyngeal cancer as compared with laryngeal cancer (P =.039). 6) Incidence of distant metastases was greatest between 1.5 and 6 years after initial treatment with a mean incidence being less than or equal to 3.2 years.

Stage I (T1 N0 M0) squamous cell carcinoma of the laryngeal glottis: therapeutic results and voice preservation

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic outcomes for voice preservation in Stage I (T1 N0 M0) glottic carcinoma, treated with conservation surgery, radiation therapy, and endoscopic resection, are controversial.

METHODS

A retrospective tumor registry retrieval of data on patients treated with curative intent at Washington University Medical Center-Barnes Hospital between January 1971 and December 1990 for the surgical group, January 1971 to December 1985 for the low-dose radiation group, and January 1986 to January 1995 for the high-dose radiation group, was performed.

RESULTS

The 659 patients with Stage I (T1 N0 M0) glottic carcinoma treated with curative intent were subdivided into four groups: (1) 90 patients received low-dose radiation (mean dose 58 Gy, range 55-65 Gy, daily fractionation 1.5-1.8 Gy); (2) 104 patients received high-dose radiation (mean dose 66.5 Gy, range 65-70 Gy, daily fractionation 2-2.25 Gy); (3) 404 patients underwent conservation surgery; and (4) 61 patients had endoscopic resection. T1A (85%) and T1B (15%) disease was equally distributed among the groups. The anterior commissure was involved in 38 patients in the radiation therapy groups and 56 patients in the surgical groups. The overall local control was 89%. The overall local salvage was 84%. The overall unaided laryngeal voice preservation was 90%. The overall 5-year disease specific and actuarial survival rates were 95% and 81%, respectively. Prevalence of 2% regional metastases, 1.2% distant metastases, and 14% second primary malignancies were documented. The cure rate was 69% for regional metastases, 13% for distant metastases, and 44% for second primary malignancies. There were 5 complication deaths (0.1%), and 38 (6%) patients died of intercurrent disease. The use and dose of tobacco products was significantly increased in patients who died of intercurrent disease (p = 0.004) or developed second primary malignancies (p = 0.024). No significant difference was observed among the four therapeutic groups in the 5-year cause-specific survival rate (p, 0.68). Actuarial survival was significantly decreased in the low-dose radiation therapy group as compared with the other three therapeutic groups (p = 0.04). Initial local control was poorer for the endoscopic (77%) and low-dose radiation (78%) groups as compared with the high-dose radiation (89%) and conservation surgery (92%) groups (p = 0.02) but significant differences were not found for ultimate local control following salvage treatment. Unaided laryngeal voice preservation was similar for high-dose radiation (89%), conservation surgery (93%) and endoscopic resection (90%), but significantly poorer for low-dose radiation (80%; p = 0.02). T1B disease (N = 94) had similar local control and voice preservation with conservation surgery (87%) and high-dose radiation (88%) but lower results with low-dose radiation and endoscopic resections (67% unaided laryngeal voice preservation; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

(1)The four therapeutic groups achieved similar rates of disease specific survival and ultimate local control. (2) Low-dose radiation was associated with significantly lower overall actuarial survival and unaided laryngeal voice preservation. (3) Endoscopic resection was associated with a significantly lower initial local control rate, but following salvage therapy achieved equivalent results to the other treatment methods. (4) Patients with (T1 N0 M0) glottic carcinoma had similar survival, local control, and unaided laryngeal voice preservation rates with high-dose radiation, conservation surgery, and endoscopic resections, but not with low-dose radiation therapy. (c) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Head Neck 21: 707-717, 1999.

Stage I (T1 N0 M0) squamous cell carcinoma of the laryngeal glottis: therapeutic results and voice preservation

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic outcomes for voice preservation in Stage I (T1 N0 M0) glottic carcinoma, treated with conservation surgery, radiation therapy, and endoscopic resection, are controversial.

METHODS

A retrospective tumor registry retrieval of data on patients treated with curative intent at Washington University Medical Center-Barnes Hospital between January 1971 and December 1990 for the surgical group, January 1971 to December 1985 for the low-dose radiation group, and January 1986 to January 1995 for the high-dose radiation group, was performed.

RESULTS

The 659 patients with Stage I (T1 N0 M0) glottic carcinoma treated with curative intent were subdivided into four groups: (1) 90 patients received low-dose radiation (mean dose 58 Gy, range 55-65 Gy, daily fractionation 1.5-1.8 Gy); (2) 104 patients received high-dose radiation (mean dose 66.5 Gy, range 65-70 Gy, daily fractionation 2-2.25 Gy); (3) 404 patients underwent conservation surgery; and (4) 61 patients had endoscopic resection. T1A (85%) and T1B (15%) disease was equally distributed among the groups. The anterior commissure was involved in 38 patients in the radiation therapy groups and 56 patients in the surgical groups. The overall local control was 89%. The overall local salvage was 84%. The overall unaided laryngeal voice preservation was 90%. The overall 5-year disease specific and actuarial survival rates were 95% and 81%, respectively. Prevalence of 2% regional metastases, 1.2% distant metastases, and 14% second primary malignancies were documented. The cure rate was 69% for regional metastases, 13% for distant metastases, and 44% for second primary malignancies. There were 5 complication deaths (0.1%), and 38 (6%) patients died of intercurrent disease. The use and dose of tobacco products was significantly increased in patients who died of intercurrent disease (p = 0.004) or developed second primary malignancies (p = 0.024). No significant difference was observed among the four therapeutic groups in the 5-year cause-specific survival rate (p, 0.68). Actuarial survival was significantly decreased in the low-dose radiation therapy group as compared with the other three therapeutic groups (p = 0.04). Initial local control was poorer for the endoscopic (77%) and low-dose radiation (78%) groups as compared with the high-dose radiation (89%) and conservation surgery (92%) groups (p = 0.02) but significant differences were not found for ultimate local control following salvage treatment. Unaided laryngeal voice preservation was similar for high-dose radiation (89%), conservation surgery (93%) and endoscopic resection (90%), but significantly poorer for low-dose radiation (80%; p = 0.02). T1B disease (N = 94) had similar local control and voice preservation with conservation surgery (87%) and high-dose radiation (88%) but lower results with low-dose radiation and endoscopic resections (67% unaided laryngeal voice preservation; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

(1)The four therapeutic groups achieved similar rates of disease specific survival and ultimate local control. (2) Low-dose radiation was associated with significantly lower overall actuarial survival and unaided laryngeal voice preservation. (3) Endoscopic resection was associated with a significantly lower initial local control rate, but following salvage therapy achieved equivalent results to the other treatment methods. (4) Patients with (T1 N0 M0) glottic carcinoma had similar survival, local control, and unaided laryngeal voice preservation rates with high-dose radiation, conservation surgery, and endoscopic resections, but not with low-dose radiation therapy. (c) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Head Neck 21: 707-717, 1999.

Microneurovascular allotransplantation of the canine tongue

INTRODUCTION

Reconstruction of the tongue with existing methods of tissue transfer often leaves glossectomy patients with significant deficits in speech and swallowing. The critical role of the tongue is implied by its unique structure and function. This paper reports the development of an animal model of hemitongue allotransplantation and documents functional and anatomic outcomes of this procedure.

METHODS

Ten pairs of unmatched dogs underwent reciprocal exchange of the left hemitongue with microneurovascular replantation. The unoperated hemitongue acted as the control. Under cyclosporine immunosuppression, animals surviving long term underwent clinical observation, before electromyography, force transduction studies, and histological evaluation being euthanized.

RESULTS

Five animals survived between 6 and 13 months for long-term evaluation. The remaining group were euthanized because of or died of overwhelming infection or uncontrollable transplant rejection. The latter sometimes resulted from difficulty in the delivery of the cyclosporine. Clinical recovery of tongue function was observed, as well as resumption of motor unit potential activity on electromyography. Contractile force recovery of the transplanted tongue averaged 68% of control (range, 47%-97%), and histological study of the hypoglossal and lingual nerves demonstrated anatomic evidence of reinnervation. Preservation of muscle, mucosal, and stromal ultrastructure was seen with light microscopy of the transplanted tongue.

CONCLUSIONS

Allotransplantation of the hemitongue and associated neurovascular apparatus is possible in a large mammalian model, with long-term survival of tissue being accompanied by partial recovery of contractile properties. Anatomical and clinical evidence also points to sensory recovery. These data support the future possibility of employing a similar technique in glossectomy patients.

Complex cervical spine neoplastic disease: reconstruction after surgery by using a vascularized fibular strut graft. Case report

The authors report a case of an aggressive chordoma in the cervical spine of a 15-year-old girl who underwent radical resection followed by reconstruction using an anterior vascularized fibular strut graft and posterior arthrodesis prior to receiving immediate postoperative radiation therapy. The patient had successful graft incorporation 4 months postoperatively. The authors review the advantages of using vascularized fibular strut grafts for the treatment of multilevel cervical spine neoplastic disease and discuss the theoretical advantages of using vascularized grafts that tolerate therapeutic levels of radiation.

End-to-side neurorraphy: a long-term study of neural regeneration in a rat model

This study evaluated long-term reinnervation of an end-to-side neurorraphy and the resultant functional recovery in a rat model. The divided distal posterior tibial nerve was repaired to the side of an intact peroneal nerve. Control groups included a cut-and-repair of the posterior tibial nerve and an end-to-end repair of the peroneal nerve to the posterior tibial nerve. Evaluations included walking-track analysis, nerve conduction studies, muscle mass measurements, retrograde nerve tracing, and histologic evaluation. Walking tracks indicated poor recovery of posterior tibial nerve function in the experimental group. No significant difference in nerve conduction velocities was seen between the experimental and control groups. Gastrocnemius muscle mass measurements revealed no functional recovery in the experimental group. Similarly, retrograde nerve tracing revealed minimal motor neuron staining in the experimental group. However, some sensory staining was seen within the dorsal root ganglia of the end-to-side group. Histologic study revealed minimal myelinated axonal regeneration in the experimental group as compared with findings in the other groups. These results suggest that predominantly sensory regeneration occurs in an end-to-side neurorraphy at an end point of 6 months.

Clinical Correlations with Allelotype in Supraglottic Squamous Cancer

Frequent allelic loss at a genetically polymorphic locus in tumors is an established marker for the presence of a tumor suppressor gene in the neighboring chromosomal region. This technique can be used to identify novel tumor suppressor genes and to monitor their status before the cloning of the gene itself. We have used the polymerase chain reaction and microsatellite loci on all 39 nonacrocentric autosomal chromosomal arms to identify sites of frequent allelic loss in squamous cell carcinomas of the supraglottic larynx. Our allelotype identified seven chromosomal arms (3p, 5q, 8p, 9p, 9q, 13q, and 17p) likely to contain tumor suppressor genes frequently inactivated during squamous tumorigenesis in the larynx. We tested for associations between allelic losses on these chromosomal arms and the clinical and histopathologic features of these tumors. There were no correlations with either T or N classifications. Allelic loss on chromosomal arm 13q is significantly associated with a number of histopathologic features characteristic of poorly differentiated or histologically aggressive tumors. Allelic loss on this arm also exhibits statistical trends toward association with early tumor recurrence and poor survival. The association with survival was substantiated by a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model.

Clinical correlations with allelotype in supraglottic squamous cancer

Frequent allelic loss at a genetically polymorphic locus in tumors is an established marker for the presence of a tumor suppressor gene in the neighboring chromosomal region. This technique can be used to identify novel tumor suppressor genes and to monitor their status before the cloning of the gene itself. We have used the polymerase chain reaction and microsatellite loci on all 39 nonacrocentric autosomal chromosomal arms to identify sites of frequent allelic loss in squamous cell carcinomas of the supraglottic larynx. Our allelotype identified seven chromosomal arms (3p, 5q, 8p, 9p, 9q, 13q, and 17p) likely to contain tumor suppressor genes frequently inactivated during squamous tumorigenesis in the larynx. We tested for associations between allelic losses on these chromosomal arms and the clinical and histopathologic features of these tumors. There were no correlations with either T or N classifications. Allelic loss on chromosomal arm 13q is significantly associated with a number of histopathologic features characteristic of poorly differentiated or histologically aggressive tumors. Allelic loss on this arm also exhibits statistical trends toward association with early tumor recurrence and poor survival. The association with survival was substantiated by a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model.

End-to-side neurorrhaphy resulting in limited sensory axonal regeneration in a rat model

This study evaluated reinnervation of an end-to-side neurorrhaphy and the resultant functional recovery in a rat model. The cut distal posterior tibial nerve was repaired to the side of an intact peroneal nerve. In one group, the epineurium of the peroneal nerve was left intact; in another group, the epineurium was stripped; in the third experimental group, a perineurial slit was created. Evaluations included walking track analysis, nerve conduction studies, muscle mass measurements, retrograde nerve tracing, and histologic evaluation. Walking tracks indicated poor functional recovery. No significant difference in nerve conduction between the experimental and control groups was seen. Gastrocnemius muscle mass measurements revealed no functional recovery in the end-to-side groups. Retrograde nerve tracing revealed minimal staining of motor neurons. However, sensory neuronal staining of the dorsal root ganglia occurred in all groups. Histology revealed minimal myelinated axonal regeneration. These results suggest that predominantly sensory neural regeneration occurs in an end-to-side neurorrhaphy at an end point of 16 weeks.

Surgical treatment for thyroid cancer

Thyroidectomy procedures are the mainstay treatment for thyroid cancer and are safe and effective when they are performed by experienced surgeons. Preoperative evaluation of patients with suspected thyroid cancer consists of ultrasonography, radioisotope scanning, and computed tomography scans. Postoperative complications of thyroidectomy procedures include hemorrhage, edema of the glottis, muscle rigidity and spasm (ie, tetany), acute thyrotoxicosis, and damage to the laryngeal nerve. Most surgical patients are discharged home within three days after surgery, and many patients require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement to prevent hypothyroidism.

Chromosome 8 allelic loss and the outcome of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottic larynx

BACKGROUND

Loss of genetic heterogeneity (allelic loss or loss of heterozygosity) on chromosome arm 8p is frequent in squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck and has been associated with poor prognosis. We have previously demonstrated that there are three minimal regions of allelic loss on this chromosome arm. The location of each region is marked by a microsatellite locus: D8S264 (8p23), D8S552 (8p23-p22), and D8S133 (8p21). These findings imply the existence of at least three putative tumor suppressor genes on this chromosome arm that may become inactivated during the progression of squamous cell carcinoma.

PURPOSE

We used allelic loss data from these three loci to determine if inactivation of these putative suppressors is associated with poor prognosis for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottic larynx. We also used multivariate statistics to compare the prognostic power of allelic loss at these genetic markers with that of demographic, clinical, and histopathologic parameters.

METHODS

We examined the D8S264, D8S552, and D8S133 microsatellites in tumors from a retrospective population of 59 patients. All patients had histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottic larynx and had been treated surgically. DNA was extracted from matched sets of normal and microdissected tumor tissue and used for polymerase chain reaction amplification of the microsatellite markers. Reaction products were separated by denaturing gel electrophoresis and visualized by autoradiography. Patient data were obtained from the original pathology report and from the tumor registry of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Histopathologic data were obtained by reviewing the portion of the resection specimen used for DNA extraction. Parameters whose association with reduced disease-free interval and reduced disease-specific survival was statistically significant were identified by use of the Kaplan-Meier method and the logrank statistic. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify independent predictors of poor prognosis. All statistical tests were two-sided.

RESULTS

In this patient population, allelic loss at the D8S264 locus was associated with both shorter disease-free interval (logrank P = .028) and reduced disease-specific survival (logrank P = .004). Allelic loss at the next most centromeric locus, D8S552, had a statistically significant association with only reduced disease-specific survival (logrank P = .034), whereas allelic loss at the most centromeric region, D8S133, showed no statistically significant association with reductions in either interval. Multivariate Cox models suggested that D8S264 was the only 8p marker of the three microsatellites with a statistically significant and independent association with shortened disease-free interval (relative risk [RR] = 3.38; P = .0107) and reduced disease-specific survival (RR = 3.41; P = .0105).

CONCLUSIONS

Allelic loss in the p23 region of chromosome 8 appears to be a statistically significant, independent predictor of poor prognosis in patients with supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma.

Prognostic significance of clinical factors and p53 expression in patients with glottic carcinoma treated with radiation therapy

BACKGROUND

Numerous clinical parameters have been suggested as predictors of outcome for patients with head and neck carcinoma treated with radiation therapy, but their applicability remains controversial. Inactivation of the p53 tumor suppressor results in radioresistance in experimental systems and might predict treatment failure in human patients. We have tested this hypothesis by comparing the predictive power of nuclear accumulation of p53 protein with that of clinical and histopathologic markers in patients with glottic carcinoma treated with primary radiotherapy.

METHODS

Clinical charts were reviewed for 165 patients with glottic squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiation therapy. One hundred and twenty-one patients with T1 or T2 classified tumors were determined to have received adequate treatment and to have adequate follow-up data for further study. Archival pretreatment tumor biopsies from a subpopulation of patients were examined for p53 protein by immunohistochemistry. The influence of clinical and histopathologic variables and p53 nuclear protein on tumor recurrence was studied by bivariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

The recurrence rate was lowest for patients with moderately to poorly differentiated tumors (P < 0.05). This was the only significant predictor of outcome in this patient population. The presence of immunohistochemically detectable p53 antigen was not predictive of tumor recurrence in 70 patients for whom there was both p53 and sufficient follow-up data.

CONCLUSIONS

Histologic differentiation was prognostic for tumor recurrence in this population of patients with glottic carcinoma treated with radiation therapy. In contrast, nuclear accumulation of p53 protein was not predictive of tumor response or recurrence in this population.

Allelic loss in squamous cell carcinomas of the larynx: discordance between primary and metastatic tumors

The mutational inactivation of suppressor genes, a process required for cancer progression, generates new genetic subclones within a tumor. The allelic losses that frequently unmask these mutations serve not only as markers of the chromosomal locations of these genes but also as clonal fingerprints of the shifting relationships between these genetically heterogeneous cell populations. The rise of the metastasis-competent subclone to dominance within the primary tumor should be reflected in the similarity of the genetic fingerprints of the primary tumor and its resultant metastases. We have tested this hypothesis by comparing the patterns of allelic loss of individual primary laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas and their resultant cervical lymph node metastases at 16 different genetically polymorphic loci on 15 chromosome arms. Although primary tumors and metastases both frequently lose heterozygosity on the same chromosome arms (3p, 9p, 9q, 13q, and 17p), five of the 12 metastases differed from their primary tumors at one or two of the loci examined. Discordance between the two tumor cell populations from the same patient is suggestive of either subclone heterogeneity within the primary tumor at the time of establishment of the metastasis or further clonal evolution of both tumors after metastasis.

Gender differences in cancer of the larynx

Gender differences in the incidence and mortality rates for cancers of the lung, colon, and larynx have previously been noted. The goal of this project was to identify gender differences in prognostic variables for survival and recurrence for patients with cancer of the larynx. The medical records of 193 patients with cancer of the larynx treated initially between 1973 and 1985 were examined retrospectively. A total of 151 men and 42 women were included. A majority of men developed glottic cancers, whereas a majority of women developed supraglottic cancers. Age was prognostically important for both genders; however, comorbidity, symptom severity, anatomic subsite, and TNM stage all had different impacts on survival and recurrence in men and women. No gender difference in initial treatment was found. This study suggests that when designing and analyzing the results from clinical studies of cancer of the larynx, it is important to employ stratification based on gender.

Vibratory segment function after free flap reconstruction of the pharyngoesophagus

Reconstructive options following total laryngopharyngectomy include thin, pliable free tissue segments, approximating the natural thickness of the pharyngeal wall. The authors have investigated outcomes in the following clinical series, emphasizing speech and swallowing. Twelve cancer patients underwent laryngopharyngectomy with or without glossectomy. Eight jejunal, 1 radial forearm, and 3 innervated latissimus dorsi flaps were used for vibratory segment (VS) reconstruction, and all 12 patients underwent tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP). Eleven patients achieved intelligible speech, with a median intelligibility of 93%. The vibrating segments showed fluttering of the free flap tissue when studied by videopharyngography. Vocal quality was lower pitched and softer than "conventional" TEP speech. All patients achieved oral intake as their primary mode of nutrition. Free flaps are a successful option for VS reconstruction in patients undergoing laryngopharyngectomy or glossopharyngolaryngectomy, obviating the need for written or electrolarynx communication.

The jejunal free flap in oral cavity and pharyngeal reconstruction

The jejunal free flap is comprehensively reviewed in this article. Information on the historical development, the anatomy and physiology of the jejunum flap, and the particular suitability of this donor site for creation of free-tissue units is described. The correct abdominal harvest and vascular anastomosis techniques are also reviewed. A detailed description of how jejunal free flaps are placed into the oral cavity and oropharynx is then provided with particular reference to the split jejunal flap and its disposition in these recipient sites. It is concluded that this flap continues to maintain an already well developed place in the armamentarium of the head and neck reconstructive surgeon.

Fibular and iliac crest osteomuscular free flap reconstruction of the oral cavity

A method for reconstruction of oral cavity soft tissues using segmentally or axially supplied free muscle flaps harvested as a unit with their bone components is presented. Both fibular/soleus and iliac crest/internal oblique free flaps are documented, and the pros and cons of each donor site are presented. Twenty-one patients, 17 with cancer or osteoradionecrosis and 4 with benign or congenital conditions of the mandible, have undergone this operation. Ten bone grafts were simultaneously embedded with osseointegrated implants. All free flaps except one survived and resulted in a smoothly mucosalized oral lining. Six patients have had their implants successfully uncovered, all of whom are wearing prostheses. Four other patients are using tissue-borne prostheses. Transfer of free, nonbulky muscle flaps for mucosalized oral soft-tissue reconstruction is feasible in selected patients using first the fibular and, second, the iliac donor site; this soft-tissue technique also contributes to prosthetic dental rehabilitation.

Frequent loss of heterozygosity for Rb, TP53, and chromosome arm 3p, but not NME1 in squamous cell carcinomas of the supraglottic larynx

BACKGROUND

The inactivation of some tumor suppressor genes classically manifests itself through the loss of heterozygosity at nearby genetic mapping markers. Inactivation of these genes appears to have diagnostic/prognostic significance in some types of tumors. Molecular genetic tools based on suppressor inactivation might, therefore, have great utility in treatment planning.

METHODS

The polymerase chain reaction and highly informative microsatellite markers were used to compare DNA derived from matched sets of tumor and normal tissue samples from 37 supraglottic laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas. Tumor samples were microdissected free of contaminating normal tissue to maximize the detection of allelic loss. Polymerase chain reaction products were fractionated by denaturing gel electrophoresis and were visualized by autoradiography.

RESULTS

Allelic losses were frequent at TP53 (56% of the tumors), the retinoblastoma gene (Rb, 59%), and the p13-14 region of chromosome 3 (64%). In contrast, the putative metastasis suppressor, NME1 (also known as NM23), was lost infrequently (7%). NME1 allelic loss did not correlate with the presence of lymph node metastases in these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The high frequencies of allelic loss at TP53, Rb, and 3p13-14 suggest that these suppressors play a major role in laryngeal carcinogenesis. In sharp contrast, the low frequency of loss at NME1 and its equal distribution in nodal metastasis-positive and -negative patients suggests that inactivation of this gene by allelic loss probably does not play a role in the development of regional metastases from these tumors. Allelic loss in 3p13-14 was found in tumors of all histopathologic grades.

Tongue reconstruction: concepts and practice

Total or subtotal tongue resection results in the potential for severe speech and swallowing disruption and life-threatening aspiration. This report documents the development of a new design for latissimus dorsi flaps used in tongue reconstruction. In order to create a contractile muscle sling which will raise the neotongue toward the palate for speech and swallowing, the flap is harvested with muscle fibers oriented transverse to its long, skin component axis. The flap is then transferred to the oral and oropharyngeal defect and sutured at the level of the mandibular angle to the remaining muscles of mastication. Conventional microvascular anastomosis for free flaps is followed by end-to-end reanastomosis of the hypoglossal nerve stump to the nerve to latissimus dorsi. The skin component is set into the floor of mouth with a curved wedge resected anteriorly, raising a mound to assist with articulation. Fourteen such reconstructions have been performed on patients undergoing glossectomy for cancer. If not invaded by cancer, the glottic larynx was preserved, and the decannulation rate was 80% at a median postoperative interval of 3.2 weeks. Seventy percent of patients achieved oral intake with pureed food or better, and upward motion of the flap was documented by video swallowing studies. Articulation was particularly good. This innervated latissimus dorsi flap design therefore is a viable method for rehabilitation after total or subtotal glossectomy.

Effect of blood transfusion on recurrence of head and neck carcinoma. Retrospective review and meta-analysis

To study the effect of transfusion on recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, we analyzed the records of 143 patients with stage II through IV squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottic larynx or hypopharynx for whom follow-up to recurrence or 5 years after surgical therapy was available. Variables studied were age, gender, TNM staging, duration of operation, estimated blood loss, units of blood products transfused, surgical margins, number of pathologic nodes, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hematocrit, and serum albumin. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that transfusion, number of pathologic nodes, and preoperative hematocrit were significantly related to recurrence. The univariate odds ratio for tumor recurrence in patients receiving any blood products was 3.2 (95% confidence interval 1.5 to 6.9; p = .004). Based on a meta-analysis of the data from this study and the five published studies, the combined odds ratio for recurrence after transfusion was 2.6 (95% confidence interval 1.9 to 3.7; p less than .0001). These data identify a clinically important adverse effect of transfusion of blood products on tumor recurrence in patients with advanced head and neck cancer. We recommend a policy of blood conservation surgery to enhance cancer control, and we encourage further research to clarify the mechanism(s) of this effect.

c-myc oncogene copy number in squamous carcinoma of the head and neck

PURPOSE

Altered resident cellular genetic sequences (oncogenes) may result in malignant transformation, maintenance of tumor growth, and metastatic propensity. In this pilot study, we have elected to probe c-myc oncogene in evaluating specimens from human squamous cell carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Samples were obtained from 24 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. The ratio of tumor DNA values to that of control DNA was used to estimate the c-myc copy number.

RESULTS

Data from material obtained from eight patients was analyzed to the point of c-myc copy number. Tumors varied from stage II through IV. Five originated in the oral cavity and three in the larynx. Analysis of primary tumors demonstrated that two of eight had increased c-myc copy numbers. Histologically positive neck specimens were encountered in five of the study patients. Three demonstrated elevated c-myc copy numbers, two of which had had increased copy number at the primary site.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that c-myc amplification can be present in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. c-myc Amplification may also be present in neck metastasis. Oncogene amplification in neck metastasis may indicate an increased metastatic propensity for individual tumor cells demonstrating c-myc amplification.

Free jejunal graft: effects of longitudinal myotomy

Pharyngoesophageal reconstruction using the free vascularized jejunal graft results in dysphagia in approximately 20% to 40% of patients. This may be caused by graft contractility, and we therefore developed this canine model to assess the functional effects of myotomy on transplanted jejunum. Nine female dogs underwent microvascular transposition of jejunum to the neck, the bowel being placed subcutaneously with two end jejunostomies. Baseline functional manometry was performed. Five animals then underwent complete longitudinal myotomy and four animals underwent a sham procedure. Graft function was then reevaluated after complete would healing. Contraction frequency, contraction amplitude, and total work done by the graft were recorded; all grafts demonstrated activity and were more active postrecovery than at the time of operation. Although myotomy animals showed a within-group trend to decreased contractility postintervention, this was not statistically significant. Furthermore, there was no significant postintervention difference between the sham and myotomy groups. We conclude that our model is effective for the study of activity in the free jejunal graft and that longitudinal myotomy does not significantly reduce, let alone ablate contraction.

Meta-analysis of second malignant tumors in head and neck cancer: the case for an endoscopic screening protocol

A meta-analysis was performed on data from the Washington University Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Tumor Registry and 24 studies reporting synchronous and metachronous malignancies in head and neck cancer patients. The overall second malignant tumor (second primary) prevalence was 14.2% in 40,287 patients, the majority of tumors being metachronous. Site relationships between index tumors and second primaries revealed significantly high risks along the digestive tract axis or the respiratory tract axis, although lung second primaries were prevalent in all groups. Head and neck second primaries were the largest group, being significantly more common in the oral cavity, oropharynx, and hypopharynx than in the larynx. Oral cavity index tumors showed the highest overall rate of second primary formation. Half of all aerodigestive tract second primaries are detected by 2 years from index tumor presentation, but non-aerodigestive tract tumors are common beyond 5 years. A significantly higher detection rate was proven for the prospective panendoscopy studies. We recommend routine interval endoscopic intervention within 2 years of treatment for optimum detection of second primaries in head and neck cancer patients. Also, a lifetime of clinical surveillance is suggested for aerodigestive tract second neoplasms in oral cavity, oropharynx, and hypopharynx cancer patients and for lung and non-aerodigestive tract neoplasms in larynx cancer patients.

The latissimus dorsi donor site. Current use in head and neck reconstruction

Reconstruction of head and neck defects after trauma, tumor extirpation, or disease has improved with the modern development of multiple donor sites. However, the selection of a particular pedicled or free flap should balance the required sophistication of repair with donor site morbidity. The latissimus dorsi donor site is capable of providing a versatile group of tissues; ie, muscle, skin, subcutaneous tissue, bone, nerve, and vascular pedicle. We present a series of 30 latissimus dorsi flaps (20 pedicled and 10 free) used for craniotemporal, craniofacial, midfacial, oral, oropharyngeal, mandibular, and neck skin reconstructions. The flap survival rate was 90%, a result similar to other large series. The indications for using the latissimus dorsi as opposed to other donor sites were large skin defects, cephalad defects, total glossectomy defects, defects requiring free tissue transfer, and defects where other regional donor tissue was unavailable. We also present a novel flap design for total glossectomy reconstruction.

Baseline motility of the free jejunal graft in a new canine model

Reconstruction of pharyngoesophageal defects using free jejunal grafts has become an accepted technique of reconstruction. However, there are functional problems associated with the jejunal graft. We developed a canine model that allows us easy access to perform various studies on grafted jejunum, including videofluoroscopy and pressure manometry to determine baseline function. Using a microvascular technique, free jejunal grafts 10 to 30 cm in length were implanted in 11 mongrel dogs. The jejunal segments were implanted subcutaneously and exteriorized proximally and distally. The grafted dogs underwent videofluoroscopic studies. These studies revealed three different types of jejunal graft contractions of variable intensity: circumferential, longitudinal, and mixed. These contractions resulted in four patterns of barium movement: anterograde propulsion, retrograde propulsion, to-and-fro motion, and peristaltic propulsion. Videofluoroscopic studies were repeated on five dogs after an intravenous injection of metoclopramide (Reglan), which caused a significant short-term increase in the intensity of the basic jejunal contractions and barium propulsion. Pressure manometry studies using intraluminal pressure transducers were performed, revealing an inherent baseline contractility. Each dog has its own individual pattern of activity. The pressure generated by the contractions ranged from 5 to 350 mm Hg. Intravenous injection of Reglan produced a marked increase in pressure, but no change in the frequency of contractions. This study suggests that a free jejunal graft will maintain baseline motility. However, this graft may cause dysphagia by discoordination of contractions, retrograde propulsion of a bolus, or a sustained local contraction, demonstrating the clinical problems associated with free jejunal graft reconstruction of the cervical esophagus. Our results with Reglan suggest that it might be possible to improve the function of these grafts using pharmacologic agents.

Cerebral shift after lateral craniofacial resection and flap reconstruction

The biomechanical effects on the cranial contents after craniectomy and immediate soft-tissue flap reconstruction are substantial and potentially life threatening. Once the rigid protective covering of the skull is removed, the cerebral component of the cranial contents is vulnerable to rising extrinsic pressure. Intracranial pressure falls, brain compliance rises, and contralateral cerebral shift may occur by virtue of the craniectomy alone. However, if flaps filling the defect should compress by weight or swelling, even greater midline or craniocaudal shift of the brain may occur. We present three cases in which midline cerebral shift was documented by CT scan after flap reconstruction of lateral craniofacial/craniotemporal resection. Three other patients undergoing anterior craniofacial resection during the same time period for skin cancer (one patient) and esthesioneuroblastoma (two patients) had no shift in intracerebral contents. Symptomatic or asymptomatic intracranial shift may occur soon after substantial craniectomy and soft-tissue flap reconstruction. Midline shift from lateral resection and reconstruction is more likely than anteroposterior shift from anterior craniofacial resection. Strategies for minimizing this compression or shift are described.

A porcine model for multiple musculocutaneous flaps

The purpose of this study was to develop and describe in detail a reproducible porcine model for musculocutaneous flap study. The model was required to demonstrate the following: 1. consistent, easily identifiable anatomical landmarks for muscles and muscular vascular pedicles; 2. flap survival, consistent with the musculocutaneous perforator arrangement of blood supply; 3. ease of islanded- or free-flap formation; 4. arrangement of flaps on each animal, allowing paired studies of control and experimental flaps; and 5. a maximum number of flaps per animal, without undue morbidity or mortality. Pilot dissections were made of the pectoralis, trapezius, latissimus dorsi, gracilis, biceps femoris, and tensor fasciae latae muscles and their major vascular pedicles. After establishing the anatomical landmarks, we formed musculocutaneous flaps at each site to verify the above five requirements. A total of 72 muscle/vessel pedicle dissections were performed, incorporating formation of 61 island musculocutaneous flaps. The skin component overlying an islanded muscle block survived in 60 instances, confirming the reliability of the flap model. We concluded that five pairs of musculocutaneous flaps could be fashioned on one pig, using the bilateral control/experimental paradigm if desired. The pectoralis, latissimus dorsi, trapezius, gracilis, and biceps femoris muscles were used. The ventral muscle group (pectoralis, gracilis) was raised in one operating session, and the lateral muscles (trapezius, latissimus dorsi, biceps femoris) were raised in one further session per side. Three new porcine flaps are described--the pectoralis, biceps femoris, and trapezius. Morbidity was confined to mild splinting of the limbs for one day. This is also the first example of the use of ten musculocutaneous island flaps on one pig, and represents an opportunity for performing physiological, pathological, or pharmacological experiments on the musculocutaneous flap.

New canine model for free jejunal graft studies

The need to more fully understand the function and physiology of the free jejunal graft prompted us to develop a new canine model. Twelve dogs were used to transplant a free jejunal graft in the neck with proximal and distal stomas exteriorized to the skin. The techniques used, complications encountered, and the potential for acute and chronic studies with this animal model are presented.

Massive angiofibroma: a surgical approach and adjunctive therapy

A case of "end-stage" juvenile angiofibroma is presented which, by physical airway obstruction, almost killed the patient before treatment. With preoperative, adjunctive hormonal and especially embolization therapy, complete surgical removal of a 160 gm tumor was facilitated, with relatively little blood loss. A lateral transfacial approach was used that maximized the exposure created by tumor growth and minimized risks of permanently arrested growth in the severely displaced and compressed maxilla. This approach should be limited to tumors of similar size, location, and configuration; the specific indication is spread into the parotid region and out beneath or through the peripheral facial nerve.

Extension of the musculocutaneous flap by surgical delay

The musculocutaneous flap has limits on survival of its skin segment. Random skin extensions beyond muscle margins have, by clinical experience, been shown to survive. It has not been proved, however, what quantity of random skin will survive or whether its viable dimensions can be augmented by surgical delay. Twenty-five porcine musculocutaneous island flaps were created with a random skin extension running beyond the likely limit of survival. Twenty-five paired contralateral flaps subjected to a surgical delay one week earlier were raised simultaneously. The surviving dimensions of random skin on both control and experimental flaps were measured 14 days after delay. The control flaps sustained random skin segments one to 48 times their area of muscle while the delay doubled this, engendering more predictable survival. A new, successful experimental technique of increasing skin survival in musculocutaneous flaps is documented.

Upper airway obstruction presenting as exercise-induced asthma

A patient presented with a ten-year history of exercise-induced wheezing. After trials of metaproterenol and cromolyn failed to improve her symptoms, she was observed during exercise. She proved to have inspiratory stridor caused by collapse of the posterior aryepiglottic folds over the vocal cords during inspiration only following exercise. Symptoms primarily improved with physical conditioning. Further improvement came after treatment of her chronic rhinitis and post-nasal drip with a steroid nasal spray.