Our Summary

This research paper is about the different methods used to restore speech in people who have undergone a total laryngectomy, which is a surgery to remove the voice box. The three common methods are esophageal speech, tracheoesophageal speech, and electrolarynx speech.

After reviewing numerous studies, the researchers found that the method that produced the best results in terms of sound quality, clarity, and other acoustic measures was tracheoesophageal speech. However, no method was clearly superior when it came to patient satisfaction.

The researchers also noted that many of the studies they reviewed were not well-designed and may have been biased, as they often included only the best speakers. They called for more rigorous and standardized ways of assessing these speech restoration methods.

Finally, they noted that factors such as the knowledge and skills of healthcare providers, as well as differences in healthcare and insurance systems, can affect the speech restoration options available to patients.

FAQs

  1. What are the three main methods used to restore speech after a total laryngectomy?
  2. Among the methods studied, which one produced the best results in terms of sound quality and clarity according to the research?
  3. What factors did the researchers note could influence the availability of speech restoration options for patients?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laryngectomy is to explore all speech restoration options available and work closely with a speech therapist to find the method that works best for them. It is important to be patient and practice regularly to improve speech quality and clarity. Additionally, seeking support from other laryngectomy patients and joining support groups can also be beneficial in adapting to life after surgery.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who undergo a total laryngectomy are recommended speech restoration methods such as esophageal speech, tracheoesophageal speech, or electrolarynx speech. These patients may have had their voice box removed due to conditions such as laryngeal cancer, severe damage to the larynx, or other conditions that affect the ability to speak.

Patients who are motivated to regain their ability to speak and are willing to undergo the necessary training and rehabilitation may be good candidates for speech restoration methods. Additionally, patients who have good overall health and cognitive abilities may be better able to learn and adapt to new speech techniques.

Ultimately, the decision on which speech restoration method to recommend to a patient will depend on various factors such as the patient’s preferences, abilities, and access to healthcare resources. It is important for healthcare providers to thoroughly assess and discuss the options with patients to determine the most suitable method for each individual.

Timeline

Before a laryngectomy, a patient may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking due to conditions such as laryngeal cancer. They may undergo various tests and consultations to determine the need for surgery. After the surgery, which typically takes several hours and involves removing the voice box, the patient may experience pain, swelling, and difficulty speaking or swallowing.

In the immediate post-operative period, the patient will likely have a tracheostomy tube in place to help with breathing. They will undergo speech therapy to learn alternative methods of speaking, such as esophageal speech, tracheoesophageal speech, or using an electrolarynx device. The patient may also receive additional treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.

Over time, the patient will continue to work with speech therapists to improve their communication skills. They may experience changes in their voice quality, pitch, and volume. The patient may also undergo additional surgeries or procedures to improve speech or address any complications from the laryngectomy.

Ultimately, the patient will need to adjust to living without a voice box and find ways to communicate effectively in their daily life. This may involve using assistive devices, such as voice amplifiers or communication apps, and seeking support from healthcare providers, support groups, and loved ones.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about laryngectomy include:

  1. What are the different methods available for restoring speech after a laryngectomy?
  2. What are the pros and cons of each speech restoration method?
  3. Which method do you recommend for me based on my individual needs and preferences?
  4. What are the success rates and potential complications associated with each method?
  5. How long does it typically take to learn how to use each speech restoration method effectively?
  6. Are there any additional therapies or support services available to help me improve my speech after a laryngectomy?
  7. How often will I need to follow up with you or a speech therapist to monitor my progress and address any issues that may arise?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or modifications I should consider to improve my speech outcomes?
  9. What are the costs associated with each speech restoration method, and will my insurance cover them?
  10. Can you provide me with resources or information about support groups for individuals who have undergone a laryngectomy and are learning to communicate effectively again?

Reference

Authors: van Sluis KE, van der Molen L, van Son RJJH, Hilgers FJM, Bhairosing PA, van den Brekel MWM. Journal: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2018 Jan;275(1):11-26. doi: 10.1007/s00405-017-4790-6. Epub 2017 Oct 31. PMID: 29086803