Long-term Results of VoiceMaster Voice Prosthesis Use in Laryngectomized Patients

Abstract

Objective --To report on the long-term results, focusing on prosthesis lifetime, achieved with the VoiceMaster prosthesis in an outpatient population. Material and Methods --The VoiceMaster prosthesis was used over a 40-month period. Average prosthesis lifetimes were calculated both individually and for the group as a whole. Factors determining prosthesis insertion were noted. Also, the possible effect of interim prosthesis cleaning and reinsertion of the same device, a specific VoiceMaster characteristic, was assessed. Results --An average prosthesis lifetime of 6.5 months was attained for the whole patient group and several devices were still in situ at the end of the 40-month period. Local factors (tracheostoma size, fistula position and characteristics) influence insertion. Interim cleaning with immediate reinsertion of the device can greatly enhance prosthesis lifetime on an individual basis. Conclusion --The attained average prosthesis lifetime demonstrates that the VoiceMaster merits a place within the array of available prostheses used in post-laryngectomy outpatient voice rehabilitation.

• Alaryngeal
• Artificial larynx
• Laryngectomy
• Prosthesis
• VoiceMaster
• Voice rehabilitation