Salvage laryngectomy for non-functional larynx: a qualitative study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Salvage laryngectomy following chemo-radiotherapy for non-functional larynx: A qualitative study
IRAS ID
307733
Contact name
Arvind Arya
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
BCUHB
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 1 days
Research summary
Introduction
Patients diagnosed with cancer of the larynx may be offered curative surgery, in the form of laryngectomy, or a combination of chemo-radiotherapy. Following curative chemoradiotherapy, some patients may develop a non-functional larynx which results in persistent aspiration. This can be a significant morbidity, leading to pneumonia, sepsis and death. Therefore, patients may be offered a salvage laryngectomy to combat this issue and avoid the life-threatening complications of a non-functional larynx. A ‘salvage laryngectomy’ is defined as a laryngectomy performed following previous curative intent chemo-radiotherapy. This qualitative study aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of patients who have undergone salvage laryngectomy for non-functional larynx. We hope to determine the impact of this decision on patients, helping us understand the rationale and satisfaction with their choice in order to counsel future patients accordingly.Materials & Methods
Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with up to 5 patients who have undergone salvage laryngectomy following chemoradiotherapy for non-functional larynx within the last 10 years at Wrexham Maelor Hospital or Ysbyty Glan Clwd. Semi-structured interviews will explore the following issues: Significance of symptoms pre-laryngectomy (voice, swallow, aspiration, other), the ‘tipping point’ for laryngectomy, influences on this decision and advice for others in a similar position.Potential Conclusions
We hope that exploration of patients' experiences who have undergone salvage laryngectomy for non-functional larynx will help us better understand when to offer this to future patients and counsel them appropriately.REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/YH/0056
Date of REC Opinion
25 Mar 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion