Lung Function Before and After Laryngectomy

Abstract

Five patients were examined with respect to pulmonary mechanics before and after laryngectomy. Methods were used, the results of which were not influenced by the laryngeal stenosis before and by any stenosis of the tracheostoma after the operation. It was shown that the pulmonary resistance from trachea to pleura was normal before operation. Postoperatively pulmonary resistance increased and reached a maximum after six months, when it was about ten times as high as preoperatively. One year after operation it was not more than about twice the original value. At that time lung function was normal as concerns working capacity and arterial blood gases. A great adaptability of the airways was thus shown. The dangers and problems during the period of adaption are discussed.