Smell and taste dysfunction after total laryngectomy: A cross-sectional study comparing patient and physician...

Total laryngectomy disrupts nasal airflow, often resulting in significant olfactory and gustatory dysfunction. While these sensory losses may adversely affect patients' quality of life and psychological well-being, they typically receive less clinical attention compared to voice and pulmonary complications. This study aims to evaluate the extent of smell and taste dysfunction after total laryngectomy and to compare the perceptions of these impairments between patients and otolaryngologists.

A structured survey was conducted with 32 patients who had undergone total laryngectomy and 47 otolaryngologists. Both groups responded to items on sensory dysfunction, its effects on daily and psychological well-being, clinical attention to these symptoms, and openness to rehabilitation.

Patients reported notable taste and smell impairments affecting daily life and emotions, yet physicians frequently underestimated these sensory issues. No statistically significant correlation was found between patient and physician responses regarding the perceived severity or psychological impact of sensory loss (p > 0.05). In contrast, a significant correlation (p < 0.05) between patients' willingness to use an assistive device and the physicians' readiness to recommend it.

Taste and smell loss post-laryngectomy remains underrecognized in clinical practice. Greater clinical awareness and early rehabilitative support are needed.