Abstract
Although laryngeal cancer is uncommon, the subsequent effects of treatment on speech, swallowing and respiration are immense. For more than a hundred years after the first laryngectomy was performed by Billroth and Gussenbauer, voice restoration has been an important part of the management and continues to be a considerable challenge. Voice rehabilitation may involve the use of an artificial larynx, acquisition of oesophageal speech or a surgical procedure to restore continuity between the airway and alimentary tract, thus allowing exhaled air to be diverted into the oesophagus and used for phonation. Recently an endoscopic transesophageal puncture technique has been introduced in which rehabilitation is rapid and complications are minimal. We report on a series of 56 patients who underwent this as a delayed procedure following total laryngectomy.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 190-191 |
Number of pages | 2 |
Journal | British Journal of Clinical Practice |
Volume | 42 |
Issue number | 5 |
Publication status | Published - 1988 |
Externally published | Yes |