[Conservative surgery of cancer of the larynx. Cordectomy, hemilaryngectomy, supraglottic laryngectomy].

Of a total of 219 partial laryngectomies performed, 119 were cordectomies, 30 hemilaryngectomies and 70 supraglottic laryngectomies. Results of each type of operation are presented with emphasis on problems of local recurrences, evidence of validity of procedure selected and of its indications. Analysis of results, with the reservation that indications were sometimes wide but always reasonable, showed an extremely low incidence of recurrences, the quality of the resection (limited or insufficient) having finally little incidence on the latter, except perhaps in the supraglottic laryngectomies. It is suggested, therefore, that no attempt should be made to "recover" a histologically detected insufficient excision by complementary radiotherapy not required in principle. This assists follow up review and allows secondary therapy if an unfavorable course is noted.