A novel procedure of secondary voice prosthesis insertion from the inside out: The modified Fukuhara method

Abstract

ObjectiveTo present a new procedure for inserting a secondary voice prosthesis from the inside to the outside, which improves on the method previously reported by Fukuhara et al. MethodsA flexible nasopharyngoscope was used to puncture pharynx (or transplanted jejunum) from the inside to the outside. In this method, it was possible to use the PROVOX® VegaTM Puncture Set as it is used for the placement of the voice prosthesis. ResultsWe were able to place the PROVOX® VegaTM in all cases we experienced. Most of the cases had a history of radiation therapy. The time required for surgery ranged from 11–59 minutes (mean: 29 minutes) and there was no measurable amount of bleeding. ConclusionThis new method using the PROVOX® VegaTM Puncture Set, which is designed for the original purpose of voice prosthesis implantation, was therefore found to be safe and effective.