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Updated: Apr 30, 2026
A Structured Rehabilitation Protocol for Improved Multifunctional Prosthetic Control: A Case Study
Published on: November 6, 2015
Feasibility and impact of a cooperation and task-sharing protocol in voice prosthesis replacement in laryngectomized
A Villarmé1, D Culié1, G Poissonnet1
1Département de Chirurgie Oncologique Cervico-Faciale, Centre Antoine-Lacassagne, Institut Universitaire de la Face et du Cou, 31, avenue de Valombrose, Nice, France.
Aim:
Voice prostheses are one of the main vocal rehabilitation techniques following total laryngectomy. However, leakage requires frequent replacement and availability of physicians. This study explores a task delegation protocol between physicians and nurses for voice prosthesis exchange. The objective was to evaluate feasibility and impact on patient care.
Methods:
After validating and implementing the protocol, we conducted a prospective study from March to October 2024 to assess its impact for nurses, physicians and patients, on a satisfaction questionnaire.
Results:
Fifty-six of the first 60 voice prosthesis replacements were successfully performed by delegated nurses. Physicians were consulted for 4 unsuccessful procedures, mainly due to difficult access to the tracheoesophageal fistula. Three patients expressed concerns about the protocol, but overall, 93% reported high satisfaction with the care received.
Conclusion:
The success of this collaborative protocol helped reduce physician workload and highlighted the valuable role of nurses, while ensuring high-quality care for laryngectomized patients with voice prostheses.
