High pharyngoesophageal strictures after laryngopharyngectomy can also be treated by self-expandable plastic stents

BackgroundPermanent dysphagia occurring after laryngectomy or laryngopharyngectomy can usually be treated by periodic dilation. Occasionally, however, conservative treatment is insufficient, and patients require long-term tube feeding. We describe 4 cases with stricture after laryngopharyngectomy who underwent insertion of self-expandable plastic stents (SEPSs) across the stricture for treatment of dysphagia.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the role of SEPSs in postlaryngopharyngectomy strictures.DesignAn interventional study of management of 4 patients of dysphagia after laryngopharyngectomy with SEPSs.SettingMedical gastroenterology unit in a tertiary care hospital.PatientsFour patients with dysphagia after laryngopharyngectomy.InterventionsSEPS placement and removal after 3 months.Main Outcome MeasurementsImprovement in dysphagia.MethodsFour patients with dysphagia after laryngopharyngectomy underwent dilation of stricture followed by SEPS placement for 3 months.ResultsThree patients had grade IV, and 1 grade III dysphagia. Endoscopy showed stricture at 10 to 14 cm from the incisors. Stricture was dilated up to 15 mm on 3 occasions, 2 weeks apart. A silicone Polyflex stent was placed across the stricture and removed after 3 months. No dysphagia recurred after 2 months. No significant complications were noted.LimitationsSmall sample size.ConclusionsSEPSs dilate postlaryngopharyngectomy strictures and prevent restenosis even after removal.