Speech Rehabilitation in Laryngectomees with Tracheo-Oesophageal Fistulas and Prostheses

Abstract

The Staffieri technique was used in 24 patients, but abandoned due to aspiration. The Blom—Singer or other prostheses were used in 40 cases, 50 % achieved fluent speech, 15% spoke partially and 35% were not able to use the prostheses at all.

Some complications are always met with in these cases: Dysphagia, leakage around the prostheses and difficulties with the function of the prostheses. The selection of suitable cases is important. Their cooperation and motivation must be ensured preoperatively, and in many cases like those living under poor social conditions or in older patients, this procedure should not be tried.

Key Words:

• Laryngectomy
• prostheses