INTRODUCTION: To reduce tumor recurrences in the tracheostomal region mostly surgical measures come to the fore. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In six incurable patients with peristomal tumor recurrence, we performed nine palliative tumor reductions using argon plasma coagulation (APC). This electrosurgical non-contact technique has been described to produce effective hemostasis and favorable wound surfaces. RESULTS: In all nine procedures APC led to rapid and reliable hemostasis. Postoperative bleedings did not occur, and dry wound surfaces adjusted to the level of surrounding body contours considerably facilitated the wound aftercare. After eight of nine APC operations the immediate insertion of conventional cannulas was feasible instead of the tracheostomy tubes needed in the interim, and the patients were again able to change the cannula themselves. Two laryngectomized individuals could resume use of their voice prosthesis. CONCLUSION: APC is particularly suitable for the palliative surgical treatment of tumor recurrences in the tracheostomal region, because it helps to circumvent typical problems of conventional surgery.
INTRODUCTION: To reduce tumor recurrences in the tracheostomal region mostly surgical measures come to the fore. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In six incurable patients with peristomal tumor recurrence, we performed nine palliative tumor reductions using argon plasma coagulation (APC). This electrosurgical non-contact technique has been described to produce effective hemostasis and favorable wound surfaces. RESULTS: In all nine procedures APC led to rapid and reliable hemostasis. Postoperative bleedings did not occur, and dry wound surfaces adjusted to the level of surrounding body contours considerably facilitated the wound aftercare. After eight of nine APC operations the immediate insertion of conventional cannulas was feasible instead of the tracheostomy tubes needed in the interim, and the patients were again able to change the cannula themselves. Two laryngectomized individuals could resume use of their voice prosthesis. CONCLUSION: APC is particularly suitable for the palliative surgical treatment of tumor recurrences in the tracheostomal region, because it helps to circumvent typical problems of conventional surgery.