Surgical Laryngeal Closure to Eliminate Chronic Aspiration

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Abstract
WHEN the function of the laryngeal sphincter is lost, anything swallowed, including saliva, is directed through the incompetent larynx and into the trachea. The cough mechanism is impaired, and vocal function is nil or absent. Frequent bouts of aspiration pneumonia add to the patient's misery. Such patients require continuous hospitalization and nursing care, for a cuffed tracheotomy tube is necessary to control aspiration of saliva, and a nasogastric or gastrostomy feeding tube is needed to maintain nutrition. A patient suffering from chronic aspiration will gladly sacrifice any remaining vocal function in exchange for restoration of breathing and eating without impediment. . . .

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