Endoscopic laryngo-pharyngeal surgery (ELPS) for superficial carcinoma of the pharynx and cervical esophagus

Recent advances in endoscopic procedures, such as narrow band imaging systems and magnifying endoscopy, have enabled the precise observation of the hypopharynx and cervical esophagus. We developed endoscopic laryngo-pharyngeal surgery (ELPS) as minimally invasive surgery for superficial carcinoma of the larynx and pharynx. First, we insert the laryngoscope with endoscopic guide and place it at on the upper part of the vocal cord. We lift the larynx by the laryngoscope and fix the laryngoscope. The curved laryngoscope gives us a good visual field and working space between the hypopharynx and the cervical esophagus. After lifting the larynx using the laryngoscope, the endoscopist inserts the endoscope and the operator inserts the forceps and electric device transorally. After iodine staining, we mark the normal mucosa just 1-2 mm away from the cancer margin and inject Epinephrine-added physiological saline solution to the subepithelial layer. After the circumferential cutting, we resect the lesion with the forceps and electric device. ELPS for superficial carcinoma of the hypopharynx and cervical esophagus is a feasible and effective treatment.