Laryngectomy Surgery

A laryngectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the larynx, or voice box, which connects the mouth to the lungs. It is typically performed to treat laryngeal cancer, severe neck injuries, or radiation necrosis caused by previous treatments.

Alternate Name

Surgical larynx removal

Body Location

Larynx/Neck

Types of Laryngectomy Procedures

Laryngectomy procedures can be classified as partial or total, depending on the extent of removal required:

Partial Laryngectomy: Only the affected portion of the larynx is removed, preserving as much functionality as possible.
Supraglottic Laryngectomy: The part of the larynx above the vocal cords is removed, often allowing for normal voice function.
Hemilaryngectomy: One vocal cord is removed, typically for vocal cord cancer, which may affect voice quality.
Total Laryngectomy: The entire larynx is removed, necessitating the creation of a permanent breathing hole (stoma) in the neck for breathing.

Preparation for Laryngectomy Surgery

Preparation involves mental and physical readiness, with guidance from consultants, speech therapists, and specialists for speech, swallowing, and eating training. Steps include:

Blood tests and physical examinations.
Electrocardiogram (ECG).
Counseling on nutrition and smoking cessation.
Adjustments to medications, including stopping blood thinners.
Fasting the night before surgery.

Laryngectomy Procedure

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring the patient feels no pain.

Incision: A cut is made on the neck below the Adam’s apple.
Removal: The larynx is partially or entirely removed, based on the condition.
Stoma Creation: In a total laryngectomy, a permanent opening (stoma) is created in the neck to enable breathing.
Voice Prosthesis: If needed, a tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) may be created to place a voice prosthesis, assisting the patient in speaking post-surgery.

Recovery After Laryngectomy Surgery

Eating and swallowing are challenging until the throat heals, which typically takes about two weeks.
Breathing, speaking, and swallowing adaptations may take several months.
Stoma care is critical to prevent infections.
Rehabilitation programs assist in learning new methods of speaking, swallowing, and breathing.

Follow-Up Care

Initial recovery may require a 10–14 day stay, including intensive monitoring for the first two days.
A feeding tube is used temporarily to ensure proper nutrition during throat healing.
Pain management and monitoring for swelling are essential parts of recovery.
Regular follow-up appointments aid in managing changes and monitoring progress.

Risks and Side Effects

Infections: The stoma, as an artificial airway, requires diligent care to prevent bacterial or viral infections.
Communication Challenges: Speaking after laryngectomy may require the use of a voice prosthesis or learning esophageal speech through practice.

Laryngectomy is a life-altering surgery, but with proper care, rehabilitation, and support, patients can adapt to the changes and improve their quality of life.

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