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. This blog series will go over the procedure and see what life might be like for patients after a laryngectomy who are relearning to speak.
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 2: Re-Learning to Speak
In this second part of the “Life After a Laryngectomy” blog series, we will discuss the different communication methods available to you after a laryngectomy.
Continued from Part 1: The Recovery Process
A total laryngectomy removes your larynx (voice box) and separates your trachea (windpipe) from your throat. This means you won’t be able to speak using your vocal cords, or by sending air from your lungs out through your mouth.
Methods for Speech Rehabilitation After a Laryngectomy
You can still learn new ways to talk after a laryngectomy.
- Tracheo-esophageal Puncture (TEP)
This procedure connects the windpipe and esophagus, allowing you to force air from your lungs into your mouth to produce sustained speech. - Electrolarynx
A battery-operated device that vibrates when a button is pressed, and you can form this sound into words by moving your mouth and tongue. Learn the basics of using an electrolarynx and other care tips for laryngectomy patients. - Esophageal Speech
With training, some patients learn to swallow air into the esophagus and force it out through the mouth, which can be turned into speech.
It will take time, effort, and patience to learn to speak again after a laryngectomy, and your voice will not sound the same as it did before. Support from trained speech therapists will play a significant role in helping you learn to speak after your procedure.
