Maxfacts

Larynx

Postoperative problems affecting the larynx (voice box) include

• Inability to speak. In fact, although the larynx containing the vocal cords are required for ‘normal speech’, a variety of alternative methods have been devised to overcome this by ENT(ear, nose & throat) specialists and speech and language therapists (SALT).
• Becoming a ‘neck breather’ creates obvious risks around water, again these can be managed. For example, in some areas ‘neck breather’ swimming clubs have been established.
• Lack of filtration and humidification by the nose, mouth and naso- and oro-pharynx mean drier and potentially dirtier air is breathed in over a much shorter ‘dead space’ (the area of the breathing system where oxygen can’t be exchanged with red blood cells). This short space is advantageous in surgical temporary tracheostomy but can be a problem when the tracheostome is permanent when a laryngectomy has been carried out.
• In the event of sudden collapse, emergency ‘mouth to mouth’ resuscitation is fruitless as air must be delivered via the tracheostome.