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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

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What Are The Merits Or Demerits Of Artificial Larynx Over Esophageal Speech Therapy?

My grandfather, 74, recently underwent total laryngectomy for glottic carcinoma. He s not a diabetic or hypertensive, so my question is, considering cost is not an issue here, what are the merits or demerits of artificial larynx over esophageal speech therapy? Is there any other way he can speak apart from these two options?
posted on Fri, 29 May 2015
Twitter Sun, 7 Feb 2021 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 9 Feb 2021 Last reviewed on
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Ayurveda Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

Going by the age and procedure done, I assume you are asking about Laryngectomy Rehabilitation.
1. With total laryngectomy [TL], the sound source i.e. the larynx is removed, so yes there will be a significant alteration in speech production, and whatever option you choose will depend on the surgeon, speech therapist, and the patient preferences i.e. communicative needs with physical and mental status.
2. the Third option could be Tracheoesophageal speech but aspiration could be a major challenge if there is a malfunctioning valve resulting in fluid leakage.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Munish Sood, Ayurveda Specialist
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What Are The Merits Or Demerits Of Artificial Larynx Over Esophageal Speech Therapy?

Hi, Going by the age and procedure done, I assume you are asking about Laryngectomy Rehabilitation. 1. With total laryngectomy [TL], the sound source i.e. the larynx is removed, so yes there will be a significant alteration in speech production, and whatever option you choose will depend on the surgeon, speech therapist, and the patient preferences i.e. communicative needs with physical and mental status. 2. the Third option could be Tracheoesophageal speech but aspiration could be a major challenge if there is a malfunctioning valve resulting in fluid leakage. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Munish Sood, Ayurveda Specialist