Laryngeal Cancer
Laryngeal Cancer: an Overview
Laryngeal cancer begins in the organ that houses the vocal cords, and its most common sign is persistent hoarseness. Early diagnosis eases both treatment and voice preservation.
Will I lose my voice?
It is the question her patients ask most, and a completely natural worry. What Prof. Dr. Meriç Hafız tells them, with an easy conscience: a laryngeal cancer patient does not end up voiceless.
The larynx is the organ that houses the vocal cords, and the treatment plan depends on where the tumour sits, how large it is and its stage. Caught early, the disease can usually be treated by removing only the tumour, or with radiotherapy, and the voice is preserved. Many patients speak normally after treatment.
In more advanced disease the whole larynx sometimes has to be removed. Even then, speech is not over: a voice prosthesis, an electrolarynx or oesophageal speech lets patients talk again. The aim is always double: clear the cancer completely, and protect quality of life and voice as far as possible.
Diagnosis and staging
The larynx can be seen directly at the visit with a slim endoscopic camera. If a suspicious area is found, a biopsy is planned; MRI or CT is used for staging where needed.
The stage sets the language of treatment. In early disease the aim is usually to treat while preserving the voice; in advanced disease the plan is built together with oncology and radiation oncology.
Read the full Laryngeal Cancer guide
Frequently asked questions
If it has lasted more than two weeks, do not wait for it to pass. See an ENT specialist. Early diagnosis raises both the success of treatment and the chance of keeping the voice. The cause is usually benign, but the examination should say so.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız, Professor of ENT and Head & Neck Surgery — August 2026 · About
Outcomes of surgical and medical procedures vary from person to person; please consult your physician for an assessment specific to you.
We are here for your questions
The practice is at Selenium Plaza in Beşiktaş. Message us on WhatsApp or call to arrange a visit. English-speaking patients are welcome.