Maxfacts

Larynx

Treatments for postoperative problems affecting the larynx (voice box), after laryngectomy (removal of the voice box) include:

• Inability to speak. Special techniques can be learned and adopted with the help of speech and language therapy, SALT.
• Becoming a ‘neck breather’. Social networks are usually developed locally with specialist nurse facilitators to adapt to this physical challenge.
• Lack of filtration and humidification of air. A number of devices to aid this are available.
• In the event of sudden collapse, emergency ‘mouth to mouth’ resuscitation is fruitless as air must be delivered via the tracheostome. An alert to this may be helpful.