Speech rehabilitation using a voice prostheses following laryngectomy

The most serious consequence for patients following laryngectomy is the restriction of verbal communication. Since the introduction of laryngectomy significant concerns have already been focused on the field of speech rehabilitation. The operational procedures for the speech rehabilitation include training of the oesophageal voice speech and the voice prostheses. Speech prostheses are available in our hospital since 1983. The speech quality of the speech prostheses is compared with the classical oesophageal voice or to the voice by means of a Provox speech help. Bacteriological and mycological colonisation as a function of the length of implantation are defined. Our approach to the voice rehabilitation after a laryngectomy by use of a spacer during the laryngectomy has proven successful. As a result patients do not fall into a "hole" of non verbal communication. The aim of our efforts is always to create a functioning oesophageal voice after leaving the care of the hospital.