Voice and speech rehabilitation following laryngectomy

Abstract

Surgical voice restoration using a tracheoesophageal fistula is the current treatment of choice for postlaryngectomy speech rehabilitation. Voice outcome is considered excellent and superior to other more traditional methods of alaryngeal speech. Since its inception in 1979, numerous modifications have taken place in surgical technique, prosthesis design, and selection criteria. Furthermore, there has been investigation into the application and efficacy of using a tracheoesophageal fistula in patients undergoing more extensive surgical excisions and reconstructions and into the effects of radiation therapy on success rates.