Modular prosthesis of the larynx: Visions and feasibility

Abstract

Purpose: A total laryngectomy, usually performed after the diagnosis of a laryngeal carcinoma of the stages T3 or T4 in cases where a radiation therapy is not indicated, still leads to radical restrictions of the patient. The postoperative consequences include the loss of the voice, the loss of the regular air ways via mouth and nose, thus also leading to the loss of the sense of smell, and the inability to build up an abdominal pressure. The feasibility of a larynx prosthesis which enables the laryngectomee to talk with his or her usual voice, to breathe via the regular air ways, and to build up abdominal pressure is discussed here.Materials and methods: The autonomous prosthesis consists of a device to reproduce the natural human voice, a device to reproduce the natural air ways including an artificial epiglottis to avoid choking, and a system of valves to build up an abdominal pressure e.g. to cough. The prosthesis consists of two modules: a stationary module and an exchangeable module. This is necessary to avoid a destruction of the electronics during possible radiation therapies and to easily replace components in case of a breakdown.Conclusions: Regarding the present possibilities of rehabilitation the modular prosthesis of the larynx for use in patients after laryngectomy means a medical and ethical benefit for the postoperative course in rehabilitation of laryngectomees.