Sex differences in laryngeal cancer treated with COtransoral laser microsurgery: a case-control study.

[BACKGROUND] The aim of the present study was to evaluate the sex-disparities in larynx cancer patients treated with COTransoral Laser Microsurgery (CO-TOLMS).

[METHODS] Retrospective analysis of 1290 consecutive patients. Oncologic and functional outcomes were evaluated according to sex groups. Survival rates were compared by propensity-score matching approach and multivariable Cox regression analysis.

[RESULTS] Among 1290 patients, 122 (9.5%) were females. No significant differences were observed in tumor exposure, margins or pathology characteristics. Women experienced fewer complications than men (0.12 vs. 0.06; p = 0.007). There were neither significant differences in voice or swallowing outcomes, nor in the need for tracheostomy or gastrostomy. 5-y disease-free (63% vs. 66%, p = 0.92), 5-y disease-specific (91% vs. 93%, p = 0.54) and 5-y overall survival (78% vs. 84%, p = 0.18) rates were not different between men and woman.

[CONCLUSIONS] CO-TOLMS is a valid treatment for larynx cancer in women, with equivalent outcomes than those achieved in the male population.