Vocal Rehabilitation After Laryngectomy

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Abstract
A technique was developed to create a neoglottis from the upper tracheal rings to facilitate vocal rehabilitation after laryngectomy. Useful speech developed in 11 (85%) of 13 patients in whom this technique was performed. Concurrent radical neck dissection was performed in four patients and did not have any adverse effect on development of speech. Failure to acquire satisfactory speech occurred in two patients; one of these patients is having difficulty mastering the technique despite the fact that the shunt is patent. There was one wound breakdown with fistula formation. As with other tracheoesophageal shunt procedures, careful long-term follow-up studies will be necessary before any final conclusions can be drawn.

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