Question

Discuss five (5) PROS associated with a Laryngectomee’s use of the electrolarynx

Answer 1

The larynx , commonly called the voice box, is an organ in the top of the neck involved in breathing, producing sound and protecting the trachea against food aspiration. The larynx houses the vocal folds, and manipulates pitch and volume, which is essential for phonation.

Laryngectomy is the removal of the larynx and separation of the airway from the mouth, nose and esophagus. In a total laryngectomy, the entire larynx is removed. In a partial laryngectomy, only a portion of the larynx is removed

After your laryngectomy, you will no longer have a larynx, so you will have to learn a new way to speak.

There are three different methods for speaking after a laryngectomy:

• Esophageal speech
• Artificial larynx (electrolarynx)
• Tracheoesophageal puncture

Esophageal speech: Here, you force air into your esophagus. When you push the air out, it passes through the back of your throat. This creates a vibration, and you use your mouth to form words and speak. The main disadvantage of esophageal speech is that it can be more difficult to learn and you will need intensive therapy and practice to achieve good voicing

Tracheoesophageal puncture: A tracheoesophageal puncture is a hole that the surgeon creates in your throat between your esophagus and trachea, either during the laryngectomy procedure or in a second, separate operation. After the hole has been created, a prosthesis with a one-way valve is placed into it. Disadvantages include the fact that the prosthesis must be maintained and replaced on a regular basis. It can also occasionally leak liquids into your windpipe and cause coughing.

Electrolarynx: An artificial larynx, or electrolarynx, is an electronic device that is either held against your neck or cheek or is placed in your mouth (with a tube) to produce sound. The device creates a vibration; by moving your mouth and tongue, you can speak words.

The advantages (PROS) are:

1) There is no requirement of additional surgery

2) Relatively quick and easy to learn

3) Electrolaryx allows the continuance of certain natural nuances of speech

4) It utilises the patients oral cavity

5) It also uses the preserved articulatory abilities

6) It is easier to use for people who cannot tolerate manual pressure on the neck