Correlation of voice and quality of life with adjuvant radiotherapy in patients with larynx cancer

Abstract

Introduction: To evaluate the effect of surgery type and adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) on voice quality and quality of life in patients with larynx cancer.Methods: 38 patients with larynx cancer (37 males, 1 female; mean age 63.6 ± 9.63 years) were included in this study. The parameters including tumor localization, TNM staging, and type of surgery performed, adjuvant/primary RT intake and recurrence were recorded. All participants filled voice handicap index (VHI-10) and University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire version-IV (UWQOL-4). Voice analysis was performed by Xion Endo Strop-DX system. Questionnaire scores and voice parameters were compared between groups.Results: There was a statistically significant low mean values of VHI detected within the group of stripping/cordectomy compared to groups of partial or total laryngectomy. In the group without RT, the mean values of SPLmin, MPT, pain, appearance, swallowing and chewing subgroups of UWQOL scale were higher than the group treated with RT. There was a negative correlation identified between VHI and QOL parameters. Conclusion: In advanced stage larynx cancer, increased surgical manipulation and adjuvant RT requirements decrease QOL. As a result early diagnosis of disease and treatment is very important. As subjective voice quality increases QOL scores rise, indicating the importance of referring patients for voice therapy and psychotherapy after treatment.

Keywords

• larenks kanseri
• adjuvan radyoterapi
• yaşam kalitesi
• washington üniversitesi yaşam kalitesi anketi
• ses kalitesi
• ses handikap i̇ndeksi-10
• laryngeal neoplasms
• radiotherapy/adjuvant
• quality of life
• university of washington quality of life questionnaire version-iv
• voice quality
• vhi-10