[Esophageal morphology with ultrasound imaging after laryngectomy: effect on quality of esophageal speech].
PURPOSE: In patients with aerodigestive cancer, laryngectomy places the esophagus in a superficial position, allowing easy ultrasound examination of this organ. The purpose of the present study was to assess oesophagus morphology after laryngectomy using echotomography and to compare this morphology with voice quality. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the present study, ultrasonography was performed in 28 patients (delay from surgery: 3 +/- 3 years): 15 were operated using laryngectomy technique (LT) and 13 with pharyngolaryngectomy technique (PLT). On transversal echography, antero-posterior and latero-lateral diameters, esophagus area and dilatation during phonation were systematically measured. These data were compared to the voice quality assessed by two independent observers. RESULTS: A smaller latero-lateral diameter and area were found in the PLT group than in the LT group (p < 0.05) with a flat aspect in group LT. This was associated with faster and better voice acquisition in the PLT group. CONCLUSION: Morphologic study of the esophagus after laryngectomy using ultrasound is in favor of pharyngolaryngectomy technique which allows better conditions for acquiring esophageal voice in better conditions. This could be due to the small area, circle shape and tonicity of the esophagus after this type of surgery.