Laryngectomy with Voice Prosthesis
Restoring Voice after Throat Cancer Surgery
What is a Laryngectomy?
A laryngectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the larynx (voice box). It is typically performed to treat advanced laryngeal cancer or other severe conditions affecting the voice box. After laryngectomy, the patient breathes through a permanent stoma (opening) in the neck, and natural voice production is no longer possible.
To help patients regain the ability to speak, voice prosthesis can be inserted — offering an effective and reliable way to restore verbal communication.
Why is Laryngectomy Performed?
- Advanced laryngeal or Hypopharyngeal cancer
- Cancer not responding to chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Recurrent tumors in the voice box
- Severe trauma or damage to the larynx
- Severe swallowing or breathing problems due to disease
What is a Voice Prosthesis?
A voice prosthesis is a small, silicone device that is placed between the trachea (windpipe) and esophagus (food pipe) after a laryngectomy. It allows air from the lungs to pass into the esophagus and create vibrations — producing sound when the patient covers the stoma and speaks.
This technique is known as Tracheoesophageal Puncture (TEP) Speech and is the most natural-sounding method of voice restoration after total laryngectomy.
Procedure Overview
- Total Laryngectomy – Removal of the voice box under general anesthesia
- Tracheostomy – A permanent breathing hole (stoma) is created in the neck
- TEP Creation – A small passage is made between the trachea and esophagus
- Voice Prosthesis Insertion – A one-way valve is placed in the TEP to allow speech
- Post-op Recovery – Includes speech therapy and adaptation support
Benefits of Voice Prosthesis
- Restores ability to speak naturally
- Quick and reliable speech rehabilitation
- Easy to learn with speech therapy
- Allows better quality of life and social reintegration
- Maintenance is simple with proper training
Recovery & Aftercare
- Hospital stay: 5–10 days (depending on case)
- Speech therapy begins soon after recovery
- Voice prosthesis care and hygiene are essential
- Regular follow-up for prosthesis changes or cleaning (every few months)
Potential Risks and Complications
- Leakage around or through the prosthesis
- Infection or irritation at the stoma site
- Displacement or blockage of the device
- Difficulty with swallowing or coughing (temporary)
- Psychological impact of permanent stoma (addressed with counseling)
Why Choose Dr. Harish NL for Laryngectomy?
- Experienced Head & Neck Cancer Surgeon
- Skilled in advanced laryngeal surgeries and TEP
- On-site Speech & Language Therapy support
- Holistic care including psychological counseling
- High success rate in voice restoration and quality of life