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First results with the Blom-Singer adjustable tracheostoma valve
W Grolman1, P F Schouwenburg, M F de Boer
1Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Summary
The Blom-Singer adjustable tracheostoma valve (ATV) offers valuable voice rehabilitation for laryngectomized patients. Despite some dropouts, approximately 66% found the ATV effective for fingerless speech.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- The Blom-Singer adjustable tracheostoma valve (ATV) was introduced in 1992 for voice rehabilitation post-total laryngectomy.
- Limited research exists on the ATV's benefits and drawbacks.
- This study aims to evaluate the ATV's effectiveness and patient-reported outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the advantages and disadvantages of the Blom-Singer adjustable tracheostoma valve (ATV).
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the humidification filter, valve, and fixation method.
- To identify patient factors influencing successful ATV use.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen laryngectomized patients with a low-resistance Provox voice prosthesis were fitted with an ATV.
- A specific protocol was used for patient evaluation.
- Data collected included device effectiveness, user adherence, and patient-reported outcomes.
Main Results:
- Approximately 66% of the 18 patients continued to use the ATV post-fitting.
- Differences between current users and those who discontinued use were analyzed.
- Patient factors such as age and mucus production appeared to impact effective valve use.
Conclusions:
- The Blom-Singer adjustable tracheostoma valve (ATV) is considered a valuable tool for enabling fingerless speech in laryngectomized individuals.
- Factors like age and mucus production influence patient adherence and effective use of the ATV.
- Further research can optimize patient selection and support for ATV users.