Laryngectomy

Total Laryngectomy is a surgical procedure. It is usually done when someone has a large cancer in the voice box or larynx.

After this surgery you will no longer be able to breathe through their nose or mouth and instead will breathe through an opening in the neck called a stoma.

You will lose your voice as a result of the surgery, but The Speech and Language Therapy team will work with you to achieve the most suitable and appropriate communication post-surgery and support you with any swallowing difficulties you may experience.

Patients requiring this type of surgery will usually have some or all of the following symptoms:

A hoarse voice than never improves
Swallowing difficulties
Weight loss
A lump in the neck
Pain in the neck or ear

Diagnosis

You will receive a diagnosis in the multi-disciplinary clinic, usually on a Thursday.

You may see a number of Health Care professionals at that appointment including:

ENT Consultant
Oncologist
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Speech and Language Therapist
Dietitian
Dentist

The Role of the Speech and Language Therapist

You will be seen pre surgery, during your hospital stay and post-surgery by the Speech and Language Therapy team.

The aim is of our service is to enable you to have the best possible outcomes in both communication and swallowing post-surgery.

We will also link in with community services including your GP.

You will have regular outpatient appointments in Speech and Language Therapy once you have been discharged from hospital.

Our aim is to support patients to become as independent as possible whilst recognising an individual’s circumstances and needs.

We work closely as part of the multidisciplinary team.

Communication options following Laryngectomy

Surgical Voice Restoration/Tracheoesophageal Voice

Often referred to as valve voice. A small hole connecting the back wall of the trachea into the front of the oesophagus is made where an unobtrusive small one way valve is fitted. This allows air to pass into the oesophagus causing a vibration and enabling sounds and speech.

The valve will need regular maintenance and changing either at hospital as an outpatient or some people are able to learn the skills to do this at home.

Your accent will remain the same.

Electronic Larynx

A battery operated device, same size as an electronic razor. It has a vibrating membrane which, causes sound waves when placed flat against skin of the neck or cheek.

Oesophageal Voice

Air from the mouth is pushed into the top of the throat by the tongue, and as the air comes back it can cause a vibration and make sound. It is a bit like burping.