Laryngectomy is a surgical procedure in which a part of the larynx (voice box) or the complete larynx is removed. A laryngectomy is performed to treat various conditions such as cancer of the larynx (laryngeal cancer), and chondronecrosis of the larynx (damage to the larynx because of radiation), and fracture or damage to the larynx.
Alternate Name For Laryngectomy Surgery
Transoral resection
Body Location
Throat
How is Laryngectomy Surgery performed?
Depending on the condition, a laryngectomy can be total or partial. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. A small incision is made near Adam’s apple on the neck. Then the larynx is partially or entirely removed. A permanent hole (stoma) is created on the neck, and an opening in the trachea or windpipe is created. Then the stoma will be attached to the trachea. Then breathing will take place through this stoma. The surgery incision is sealed by stitches or clips. If required, the surgeon will do a tracheoesophageal puncture in which a voice prosthesis will be attached.
Preparation for Laryngectomy
Laryngectomy surgery requires some pre-operative procedures that need to be conducted.
- Meeting with a speech therapist: This will help the patient to understand and prepare for the process and life after the surgery.
- Electrocardiogram: This test is done to check the rhythm and pattern of the heartbeat.
- Chest X-ray: This is done to ensure that there are no obstructions in the airways.
- Blood tests: These are customary before any surgery to check vital blood components.
- Depending on the medical history and pre-existing conditions, the doctor may advise the patient to stop medications such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs temporarily.
Procedure Type
Surgical
Follow Up
The patient may have to stay in the hospital for 10-14 days post-surgery for monitoring. An oxygen mask may be required temporarily to enable the patient to breathe properly post the surgery. A catheter will be inserted to collect the urine. Pain medication will be given as necessary. Eating will not be possible initially until complete healing. A feeding tube will be administered until swallowing becomes possible painlessly. This will take around 8-10 days after the surgery. Depending on the doctor’s recommendation, the patient should follow up to ensure that there are no complications and the recovery is normal.
Risks For Laryngectomy Surgery
Risks and side effects associated with laryngectomy are:
- Blood clots: improper healing
- Breathing issues: due to loss of the larynx
- Heart problems: due to respiratory issues
- Infection: due to sanitary and hygiene problems
- Decreased thyroid function: due to damage in the throat area
- Damage to the oesophagus or trachea
- Fistulas: abnormal connections between the outer skin and the pharynx
- Limited mobility in the neck and shoulder region
- Stoma related problems
- Difficulty in eating, breathing, swallowing, and gulping
Recovery From Laryngectomy Surgery
It is possible to resume most day-to-day activities after the surgery. Activities such as bathing, swimming, etc., must be avoided as water enters the stoma. Gradually, exercises can be started after the doctor’s recommendation. Exercises aid in recovery and healing. It is also advisable to consult a therapist to cope with the feelings after surgery. A speech therapist will advise on how to speak after the surgery. The area around the stoma must be kept clean to avoid infections. Keeping the airway moist will help in reducing conditions such as dry cough. A saline spray or a humidifier will be helpful for this purpose. If there is any mucous deposit or crusts around the stoma, it must be coughed out. Covering the stoma with a damp cloth also helps.
