Transoral robotic resection of a combined laryngocele

Abstract

This case report describes the use of trans-oral robotic surgery (TORS) for the excision of a combined laryngocele. Mixed or combined laryngoceles extend from the supraglottic larynx through the thyrohyoid membrane into the neck. Surgical excision for these benign lesions often requires combined external (transcervical) and internal (transoral endoscopic) approaches which carry significant morbidity. We present the case of a 37-year-old male who was diagnosed with a large laryngopyocele and was subsequently managed with a transoral excision using the da Vinci Si surgical robot system. The procedure was without complications and the patient was discharged on the second post-operative day on a full liquid diet supplemented with a naso-gastric feeding tube. Postoperative stroboscopy performed 1 month later demonstrated a well-healed hemilarynx and a normal voice. The patient is on a regular diet and now over three years removed from surgery with no evidence of recurrence. We conclude that TORS is an effective tool in the management of benign laryngeal pathology including combined laryngoceles, resulting in reduced morbidity.