Motility of the Pharynx and Oesophagus After Laryngectomy

Abstract

Intraluminal pressure recordings were made from the pharynx and the oesophagus in patients with laryngeal cancer. Before the laryngectomy no pathological recordings were found. After the operation none of the patients complained of dysphagia, but most of them showed well—defined alterations in the intraluminal pressures. After swallowing, relaxation and contraction pressures and resting tonus in the pha—ryngo—oesophageal sphincter were weaker. Peristalsis in oesophagus was usually good. The importance of early training of the oesophageal voice is stressed. Early function of the hypopharyngeal wound area seems to be important.