Communication After Laryngectomy

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify variables that discriminate between methods of communication after a laryngectomy. Data were collected from each laryngectomee on the following: support from family, friends, and other laryngectomees; characteristics of the voice therapy experience; extent of surgery; time since surgery; and demographic characteristics. Discriminant analysis of these variables showed significant differences between laryngectomees who use esophageal speech, electrolaryngeal speech, or nonverbal methods. The greatest contributor to the difference between the three groups was support perceived from family and friends, followed by the amount of time the laryngectomee practiced esophageal speech. The results clearly indicated the importance of social support from family and friends and the individual's motivation to practice during voice therapy. Laryngectomees who used nonverbal methods of communication were discriminated on the basis of the time that had elapsed since surgery; these individuals also had the most extensive disease.