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Professional Technical IVT

hemilaryngectomy

Pronunciation: HEM-ee-lar-in-JEK-toh-mee

Surgical removal of one half of the larynx while preserving voice and swallowing function.

Full Definition

Hemilaryngectomy involves resection of one vocal cord and associated laryngeal structures while preserving the contralateral vocal cord and arytenoid cartilage. This organ-preservation procedure is indicated for selected T1-T2 glottic cancers and maintains functional speech and swallowing capacity. Various techniques exist including open approaches and endoscopic laser resection. Post-operative voice quality depends on the extent of resection and compensatory mechanisms of the remaining vocal cord.

Usage

Usage note: Specify approach (open vs. endoscopic) in surgical documentation.

In Context

  • "Hemilaryngectomy achieved clear margins while preserving acceptable voice quality." — operative report
  • "The patient underwent endoscopic hemilaryngectomy for early glottic carcinoma." — surgical case presentation

Also known as

vertical hemilaryngectomy partial laryngectomy

Contrasted with

total laryngectomy

Don't confuse with

supraglottic laryngectomy cordectomy

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