Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026

An Implantable System For Chronic In Vivo Electromyography
Published on: April 21, 2020
A new custom moldable external neck brace (ENB 2.0) to improve hands-free speech in laryngectomized patients
Richard Dirven1, Jonathan R Clark, Joris G F Wismans
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen.
Objectives/Hypothesis:
The majority of laryngectomy patients fail to use a hands-free valve on a daily basis, mainly due to fixation problems of the adhesive baseplate housing. To support adhesive housings during hands-free speech a new external neck brace (ENB 2.0) was developed. The effect of the brace was assessed in terms of a qualitative assessment, adhesive lifetime, maximum phonation time and patient self-reports.
Study Design:
Twenty laryngectomees participated in this randomized, prospective, crossover trial.
Methods:
All participants used the Provox hands-free HME valve with an Xtrabase adhesive for 1 month, 2 weeks with an ENB 2.0, and 2 weeks without. Outcomes were compared with the previous model of the external neck brace (ENB 1.0).
Results:
The average total number of adhesive baseplates used during the trial was 16.7 in the non-brace group versus 10.9 in the brace group (P = 0.05). The number of daily replacements was 1.4 in the non-brace group and 1.1 in the brace group (P = 0.025). The average time a hands-free valve was worn per baseplate was 9.5 hours when wearing a neck brace versus 7.3 hours without brace (P = 0.09).The majority (81%) of the patients considered the neck brace 2.0 as a welcome addition to improve hands-free speech after laryngectomy and would use it if prescribed (88%).
Conclusion:
The new model of the neck brace reduces the number of baseplate replacements during hands-free speech and is considered as a helpful device by 81% of the participants.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...
Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene, and put on personal protective equipment: gown, gloves, mask and...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required

