Primary tracheoesophageal shunt operation for postlaryngectomy speech with sphincter mechanism

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 1986 Jul-Aug;95(4 Pt 1):373-6. doi: 10.1177/000348948609500410.

Abstract

This paper describes a primary voice restoration technique designed to eliminate the problem of aspiration commonly encountered in rehabilitation procedures following laryngectomy. This technique, utilized in 16 patients, consists of a unique combination of tracheal flap for voice production and bilateral esophageal constrictor muscle flaps to prevent aspiration. Fourteen patients developed satisfactory tracheoesophageal speech; of them 12 had normal deglutition without problems of aspiration. On radiographic examination, the bilateral esophageal muscle flaps, in combination with the dilatation and elevation of the cervical esophagus, provide a sphincter mechanism that prevents tracheal reflux during deglutition.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Deglutition
  • Esophagus / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laryngectomy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pneumonia, Aspiration / prevention & control
  • Speech, Alaryngeal*
  • Speech, Esophageal*
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Trachea / surgery*