Our Summary

This research paper explores why people lose their sense of smell after a laryngectomy, which is a surgical procedure to remove the voice box. The researchers believed that the loss of smell could be due to the inability to sniff, rather than a loss of the actual ability to smell. They used two different tests to investigate this: a sniffing test and a blowing test.

The study involved 32 patients who were about to undergo a laryngectomy. The patients’ sense of smell was tested before their surgery, then one month, six months, and one year after the surgery.

The results showed that the patients’ sense of smell was significantly worse after surgery. However, the blowing test was better at detecting any remaining sense of smell than the sniffing test. This suggests that the action of actively drawing air into the nose, rather than passively receiving scents, is important for our sense of smell. Despite this, the researchers were not able to confirm that patients retained a completely normal sense of smell after a laryngectomy.

FAQs

  1. Why do people often lose their sense of smell after a laryngectomy?
  2. What tests were used in the study to investigate the loss of smell after a laryngectomy?
  3. Was the study able to confirm that patients retain a completely normal sense of smell after a laryngectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient after a laryngectomy is to practice deep breathing exercises to help maintain their sense of smell. This can help improve airflow to the nose and potentially enhance their ability to detect scents. Additionally, using scented oils or fragrances in a controlled environment to stimulate the sense of smell may also be beneficial. It is important for patients to communicate any changes in their sense of smell to their healthcare provider so that appropriate interventions can be made.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a laryngectomy are those who have been diagnosed with laryngeal cancer that has not responded to other forms of treatment such as radiation or chemotherapy. Additionally, patients with severe laryngeal trauma or other conditions that severely affect the function of the voice box may also be recommended for a laryngectomy. Ultimately, the decision to undergo a laryngectomy is made on a case-by-case basis by a team of healthcare professionals, taking into consideration the individual patient’s specific medical history and circumstances.

Timeline

Timeline before and after laryngectomy:

  • Before surgery: Patients may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking due to underlying conditions such as cancer or other diseases affecting the larynx. They may undergo various tests and consultations with healthcare providers to determine if a laryngectomy is necessary.
  • Day of surgery: The patient undergoes the laryngectomy procedure, which involves the removal of the voice box. This surgery may be done as a last resort to treat conditions such as laryngeal cancer.
  • Immediately after surgery: The patient may experience pain, swelling, and difficulty speaking or swallowing. They may also have a tracheostomy tube in place to help with breathing.
  • Weeks to months after surgery: The patient undergoes rehabilitation and speech therapy to learn how to communicate without a voice box. They may also receive counseling and support to cope with the emotional and psychological effects of losing their voice.
  • Long-term: The patient may experience changes in their sense of smell, as demonstrated in the research study mentioned above. They may also need to adjust to life without a voice box, using alternative methods of communication such as writing, sign language, or electronic devices. Follow-up appointments and monitoring will be necessary to ensure the patient’s overall health and well-being.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a laryngectomy surgery?

  2. How will a laryngectomy affect my ability to speak and communicate?

  3. Will I need any additional therapies or treatments after the surgery, such as speech therapy or rehabilitation?

  4. How will a laryngectomy impact my sense of smell and taste?

  5. Are there any specific precautions or lifestyle changes I need to make after a laryngectomy to protect my sense of smell?

  6. How long will it take for my sense of smell to return after the surgery, if at all?

  7. Are there any specific exercises or techniques I can do to help improve or maintain my sense of smell after a laryngectomy?

  8. What resources or support groups are available for individuals who have undergone a laryngectomy and are experiencing changes in their sense of smell?

Reference

Authors: Nishiya Y, Mori E, Akutsu T, Takeshita N, Kessoku H, Shimura E, Otori N. Journal: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2022 Oct;279(10):5009-5015. doi: 10.1007/s00405-022-07343-5. Epub 2022 Mar 29. PMID: 35348858