Laryngectomy Treatment
A laryngectomy treatment is the surgical removal of your voice box, or larynx. The surgery may be performed in an attempt to treat cancer or to treat the damage caused by radiation therapy. A laryngectomy may also be necessary due to traumatic injury to the neck from a car accident or gunshot wound.
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Types
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Consult with your doctor to determine the type of laryngectomy that is right for your medical condition. It may be possible to remove only a portion of your larynx if your cancer is small, and you and your doctor feel it is a safe risk. The two types of laryngectomies are total and partial.
Total
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Prepare for extensive surgery under general anesthesia if your doctor elects to perform a total laryngectomy. This surgery results in the complete removal of your larynx along with surrounding tissue and possible removal of your lymph nodes and part of your pharynx. This surgery also involves inserting a tiny prosthesis which acts as your new voice box so you can talk after surgery. You will be left with a stoma, which is a hole at the base of your throat through which you will breathe.
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Partial
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Choose a partial laryngectomy if it is an option for your type of cancer. These are far less invasive and remove only a portion of your larynx. You may still have your own speaking voice after a partial laryngectomy although it might be permanently hoarse or weak. You should not be left with a permanent stoma. If your cancer has spread, a partial laryngectomy may not be possible.
Recovery
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Allow six weeks for full recovery from your laryngectomy. You will experience pain and discomfort for several days but you should be able to begin eating soft foods within three to seven days. You will be taught how to care for your stoma to keep it clean and free from infection. You will also work with a speech therapist who will teach you how to talk again using your prosthetic device. You will be allowed to gradually increase your activities until you are back to normal function and allowed vigorous strenuous activity in about six weeks time. It is important to move around as much as you can, even if it is just lifting your legs, as soon as your surgery is over in to prevent blood clots. Because the air you breathe will no longer be warmed and humidified by your respiratory tract before reaching your lungs, you will always need to take care in cold weather and use a humidifier if your air is dry. You can live a full normal life without your larynx once you have adjusted to the changes in your body.
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