Life After a Laryngectomy: A Six-Part Series
For patients with laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers, surgery is a common treatment approach. One type of surgery that these patients may undergo is called a laryngectomy. In this blog series, we will go over the procedure and see what life might be like for patients after a laryngectomy.
What is a Laryngectomy?
A partial or total laryngectomy is the removal of some or all of the larynx, or voice box. The larynx has several functions. It allows air to enter and leave the lungs, prevents objects and fluids from entering the lungs, and creates speech.
Let’s continue exploring this series.
Part 3: Living With a Stoma
In Part 3 of our “Life After a Laryngectomy” blog series, we address some things to keep in mind when living with a stoma.
Previously in This Series
During a laryngectomy, the trachea is redirected, resulting in a stoma (hole) in the neck that the patient breathes through. This is called a tracheostomy. There are several considerations that laryngectomy patients must keep in mind when living with a stoma:
- Humidification
Having a stoma means that the air you breathe will no longer pass through your nose or mouth, which would normally warm and moisten the air. As such, the air going into your lungs will be dryer and cooler, which may cause irritation or mucus buildup. You can help prevent this by using saline squirts, stoma covers, and a humidifier when you sleep. - Showering
Keeping water out of your stoma is important. You can do this by using foam filters, stoma covers, or a washcloth to cover your stoma while showering. - Clean Air
Air entering your stoma goes directly to your lungs, so patients should be mindful of the air they are breathing. Avoid dust, pet hair, and aerosol sprays. You can use a stoma cover in situations where there is a risk of unwanted inhalation.
Learning how to properly clean and suction your stoma is also important. Your team of doctors, nurses, and health care professionals can help teach you how to properly care for your stoma. Take a look at these quick care tips for laryngectomy patients.
