Evaluation of a method for assessing pulmonary function in laryngectomees
M A Castro1, R A Dedivitis, A G Macedo
1Fundação Lusíada UNILUS, Santos, Postgraduate Course on Health Sciences, Hospital Heliópolis, São Paulo. mafc@uol.com.br
Summary
Pulmonary function testing in total laryngectomy patients is now reliable and easy using a novel extra-tracheal device. This method accurately assesses respiratory function post-surgery, proving reproducible and well-accepted by patients.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Surgical Oncology
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Impairment of pulmonary function after total laryngectomy is significant, influenced by pre- and post-operative ventilatory changes.
- Objective assessment of respiratory condition in laryngectomees is limited due to methodological challenges in pulmonary function testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the reproducibility of a novel method for assessing pulmonary function in patients who have undergone total laryngectomy.
- To establish a reliable and accessible method for routine outpatient pulmonary function testing in laryngectomized individuals.
Main Methods:
- An experimental extra-tracheal device with a silicone adapter and skin adhesive was used to create an airtight seal around the tracheostoma.
- Pulmonary function tests, including forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume at 1 second, and Tiffeneau index, were performed in 11 laryngectomized patients and 11 controls.
- Reproducibility of test curves and technical failures were meticulously recorded by evaluators.
Main Results:
- The extra-tracheal device achieved a complete, airtight seal in all patients, without negative impact from tracheo-oesophageal prostheses.
- All patients reported high comfort and acceptance of the device, with examinations demonstrating high reproducibility.
- Pulmonary function values obtained were comparable between the laryngectomized group using the novel device and the control group using conventional spirometry, indicating accuracy.
Conclusions:
- Pulmonary function testing in total laryngectomy patients using the described extra-tracheal device is reliable, accurate, and reproducible.
- The methodology is easy to implement in routine outpatient settings and is well-accepted by patients, overcoming previous assessment limitations.
- This approach provides objective data on respiratory status, aiding in the management of post-laryngectomy patients.
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