The doctors described my cancer as a donut inside my trachea meeting right under my vocal cords. As you can see on the diagram that is right in the center of the primary area removed in a laryngectomy and why it is viewed as the best option to remove cancer from this location. 

My vocal cords have tightened with a webbing forming between them preventing movement and airflow, causing the labored breathing, scratch and tone in my current voice. All of this is commonly seen in previously radiated patients.  My previous radiation requires an additional reconstructive component in which a thigh flap will be used to provide healthy tissue for healing. Meaning my thigh will be used as a donor site for healthy tissue.