Abstract
Individuals with a laryngectomy face a host of challenges ranging from restricted vocal communication to significant lifestyle modifications associated with breathing through a stoma. Although there are significant mental and physical health benefits achieved by returning to recreational pursuits that were enjoyed pre-surgery, there can be significant obstacles in doing so. One particular challenge arises during participation in water activities (e.g, fishing, boating, etc.) where accidental submersion poses a significant risk of drowning. This manuscript describes a proof-of-concept device that protects the airway from accidental incursion of water into the airway during unanticipated submersion in water, thereby allowing laryngectomees to return to participation in water activities. The device is designed to be worn comfortably for long periods of time, while not interfering with the common methods of replacement speech that are utilized post-laryngectomy.
Highlights
Verbal communication is a distinguishing human characteristic that is a fundamental component of daily activities [1], arising from fluid-structure-acoustic interactions in the larynx [2]
As presented, the STORKEL is not recommended for current use as it has not received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval
A proof-of-concept SToma snORKEL (STORKEL) has been designed and tested as an assistive device to enable laryngectomees to safely participate in water activities where accidental, sudden immersion poses a life-threatening risk
Summary
Verbal communication is a distinguishing human characteristic that is a fundamental component of daily activities [1], arising from fluid-structure-acoustic interactions in the larynx [2]. Because risk varies by activity, the current approach focuses on providing protection when participating in activities where risk arises due to slipping and falling into the water (e.g., fishing, canoeing, boating, etc.), as opposed to more extreme activities such as jet-skiing, water-skiing, etc., where more robust protection would be needed In response to this need, the objective of this work is to design and evaluate a proof-of-concept stoma-occlusion/breathing device that can be used to protect the airway of laryngectomees during unanticipated submersion in water, while allowing the individual to breathe after resurfacing should their stoma be below the waterline. This scenario is most likely to occur during participation in water activities.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
