Pre- and post-operative counseling for laryngectomees and their spouses: an update

This survey was developed to determine if pre-operative counseling services have improved since the 1978 Keith, Linebaugh, and Cox study. The questions were aimed to obtain information on the quality and quantity of support services available to laryngectomees and their spouses. Questions addressed the type, amount, and content of information received. In addition, questions regarding post-operative counseling services for laryngectomees and spouses of laryngectomees also were included. Results indicated that 21% of the laryngectomees were not aware that laryngectomy surgery would result in loss of voice. In addition, not all speech rehabilitation options were explained to the patients. Pre- and post-operative counseling services for laryngectomees continue to be inadequate. It appears that little change has been made to improve this situation.