Our Summary

This research paper focuses on the emotional and psychological well-being of patients who have had their voice box removed (a procedure called total laryngectomy). The research included 32 patients; half of them received treatment from both a speech therapist and a psychologist, while the other half only received speech therapy. The study found that the group that had both psychological and speech therapy showed significant improvement in a variety of areas. These include their ability to accept and use their new method of speaking, their emotional state, and their quality of life. The study concludes that a combined approach of speech and psychological therapy is beneficial for patients who have had a laryngectomy.

FAQs

  1. What is the focus of this research paper on laryngectomy patients?
  2. What methods of treatment were compared in this study involving laryngectomy patients?
  3. What benefits were found for the group of patients that received both psychological and speech therapy after a laryngectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laryngectomy is to seek both speech therapy and psychological therapy to improve acceptance of their new method of speaking, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. This combined approach has been shown to be beneficial for patients who have undergone a laryngectomy.

Suitable For

Patients who have had a laryngectomy are typically recommended for the procedure if they have been diagnosed with advanced laryngeal cancer, which has not responded to other treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy. Other conditions that may warrant a laryngectomy include severe trauma to the larynx, severe vocal cord dysfunction, or other conditions that affect the function of the voice box.

In addition, patients who have had a laryngectomy may also be recommended for the procedure if they have a high risk of recurrence of laryngeal cancer, or if they have a history of smoking or heavy alcohol use, which are risk factors for developing laryngeal cancer.

Overall, the decision to recommend a laryngectomy is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s specific condition and medical history, and is typically made by a team of healthcare professionals including an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) and an oncologist.

Timeline

Before laryngectomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with a condition that requires removal of the voice box
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative consultations and tests
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative counseling to prepare for the surgery
  • Patient undergoes laryngectomy surgery

After laryngectomy:

  • Patient wakes up from surgery with a tracheostomy tube in place
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and difficulty breathing initially
  • Patient begins speech therapy to learn how to communicate without a voice box
  • Patient may experience emotional distress, grief, and anxiety over the loss of their voice
  • Patient may struggle with social interactions and self-esteem issues
  • Patient may receive counseling or therapy to address emotional and psychological challenges
  • Patient gradually adjusts to their new way of speaking and learns to communicate effectively
  • Patient may experience improvements in emotional well-being, self-acceptance, and quality of life with continued therapy and support.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential side effects and complications of a laryngectomy procedure?

  2. How will my ability to speak be affected after a laryngectomy?

  3. What are the different options for voice restoration after a laryngectomy?

  4. How can I best care for my stoma (opening in the neck) after the surgery?

  5. What support services are available for patients who have had a laryngectomy, such as speech therapy or counseling?

  6. How can I manage the emotional and psychological challenges that may arise after a laryngectomy?

  7. Are there specific exercises or techniques I can use to improve my speech and communication abilities post-surgery?

  8. What long-term changes in lifestyle or daily activities should I expect after a laryngectomy?

  9. How often should I follow up with my healthcare provider after the surgery for monitoring and support?

  10. Are there any resources or support groups for individuals who have had a laryngectomy that you recommend?

Reference

Authors: Longobardi Y, Savoia V, Bussu F, Morra L, Mari G, Nesci DA, Parrilla C, D’Alatri L. Journal: Support Care Cancer. 2019 Sep;27(9):3537-3544. doi: 10.1007/s00520-019-4647-1. Epub 2019 Jan 26. PMID: 30685792