Laryngectomy

Overview

A laryngectomy is a surgical procedure in which the larynx (commonly known as the voice box) is removed. This operation is often performed when there is a serious medical condition such as cancer, affecting the larynx. It may involve the complete removal of the larynx which is called a total laryngectomy or a partial removal depending on the extent of the disease. The procedure can help improve a patient's quality of life by removing the tumor or diseased tissue.

Why Laryngectomy Treatment is required?

Performed for serious conditions like laryngeal cancer or severe infections.

Removes tumors or diseased tissue when other treatments fail.

Total laryngectomy removes the entire voice box while partial laryngectomy removes only part of it.

Helps patients breathe better if airway is blocked.

Key Advantages of Laryngectomy Treatment

Cancer removal removes cancerous tissue from the larynx.

Restores airway for easier breathing with a laryngectomy tube.

Improves overall health and reduces disease spread.

Voice box removal surgery helps prevent complications from the disease.

Post surgery rehabilitation can improve quality of life.

How should you prepare yourself before taking Laryngectomy Treatment?

• Consult your doctor: Discuss risks, benefits, and impacts on speech.
• Undergo tests: Imaging and a laryngoscopy to assess your condition.
• Speech therapy: Plan for rehabilitation after surgery.
• Psychological support: Consider emotional support to cope with changes.

How Laryngectomy Treatment is performed?

• Partial laryngectomy: Removes part of the voice box and preserves some speech function.
• Total laryngectomy: Complete removal of the larynx and vocal cords, creating a laryngectomy stoma for breathing.

Surgeon makes an incision and removes affected tissue.

What you can expect Before procedure, During procedure and After procedure?

1. Before the procedure: Follow doctor’s instructions, including fasting and stopping certain medications.

2. During the procedure: General anesthesia is used. Surgery may take hours.

3. After the procedure: Recovery involves hospital stay, breathing through the stoma and speech therapy.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection: Risk of infection around the laryngectomy stoma.
• Breathing issues: Adjusting to breathing through the stoma.
• Voice loss: Permanent voice changes with speech therapy required.
• Swallowing difficulty: Adjustments may be needed for eating and drinking.

Results/Outcomes

Cancer removal can improve survival and quality of life.

Speech rehabilitation can help patients adapt to changes in communication.

Total laryngectomy patients may experience a new way of breathing and speaking with continued support.