Tracheo-esophageal puncture--literature review and case reports

Since Singer's and Blom's original article was presented on the results of their initial group of tracheo-esophageal puncture (TEP) candidates, several articles (Wood, et al, 1981; Donegan, et al, 1981) have appeared in the literature reporting results of other groups of TEP procedures done at various centres. These articles also included details of limitations of the procedure. In these case reports, a small group of patients who have undergone TEP are noted and the problems and limitations of the procedure are discussed from the viewpoint of the speech pathologist. Suggestions are also presented (based on past experience), for avoiding failure of the procedure. Also, the tracheo-esophageal speech of one patient is investigated to demonstrate possible improvement in communication skills, following TEP.