Laryngectomy is the removal of the larynx, either entirely, separating the airway from the mouth, nose and esophagus, or partially, removing only a portion of the organ. Following the procedure the person breathes through an opening in the neck called a stoma, and it is usually performed by an ear, nose and throat surgeon for laryngeal or other head and neck cancers when more conservative treatments have failed or the cancer has progressed too far to preserve the larynx.
Facts
Partially Attested
Origin YearYear is for the first total laryngectomy, by Theodor Billroth; a partial laryngectomy was done earlier in 1873 and an older claim of 1866 was a post-mortem excision. Sources
1. Wikipedia
Wikipedia contributors, Wikimedia Foundationhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laryngectomy, lead sectionQuote, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laryngectomy, lead section
Laryngectomy is the removal of the larynx.
2. Wikipedia: Laryngectomy
HistoryQuote, History
The first total laryngectomy was performed in 1873 by Theodor Billroth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a laryngectomy?
Removal of all or part of the larynx, usually for laryngeal cancer, leaving the person breathing through a neck stoma.
Laryngectomy is the removal of the larynx. In a total laryngectomy the entire larynx is removed, with the separation of the airway from the mouth, nose and esophagus, while a partial laryngectomy removes only a portion. Afterward the person breathes through an opening in the neck known as a stoma. It is usually performed by an ENT surgeon in cases of laryngeal cancer, when more conservative treatments fail to conserve the larynx or the cancer has progressed such that normal functioning would be prevented.
How can people speak after a total laryngectomy?
Through a voice prosthesis, an electrolarynx, esophageal speech, or rarely a larynx transplant.
Total laryngectomy removes the larynx, which is essential for natural sound production, so voice rehabilitation is an important part of recovery. The available methods are tracheoesophageal speech using a voice prosthesis placed in a surgically created puncture, speech using an electrolarynx held against the neck, esophageal speech in which the speaker pushes air into the esophagus and back up, and, very rarely, a larynx transplant from a cadaver donor. The method is selected based on each individual's abilities, needs and lifestyle.
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