Closed linear stapling in total laryngectomy- personal preferences and checklists to optimize outcomes

Abstract

Use of linear staplers for pharyngeal closure after total laryngectomy is yet to gain its due acceptance among head and neck surgeons because of a lack of experience sharing among those already well versed in it. Presented here are some nuances and the checklist that would enhance the safety and results of closed stapling in a total laryngectomy for advanced endolaryngeal cancers comprising meticulous separation of the tumour-free pharynx, the uninvolved vascularity maintained thyroid gland and the infrahyoid muscles [1] from the tumour involved larynx based on an angiosome concept.

Keywords

• Linear stapling
• Total laryngectomy
• Optimised technique