[Phonation following reconstructive laryngectomy]

Abstract

The authors describe the results obtained, from the point of view of vocal function in 43 cases of patients who underwent various types of reconstructive laryngectomy: trachio-hyoido-epiglotto-pexy (Arslan and Serafini), crico-hyoido-pexy (Labayle), crico-hyoido-epiglotto-pexy (J.J.Piquet). These operations have as their main aim the preservation of vocal function, for social particularly as it is, increasingly, young people who are affected. The survey was carried out by means of measurement of volume, sonagraph recordings, recordings of movements of the neoglottis by accelerometer and integrating amplification. This method makes it possible to classify voices more objectively. The survey shows the importance of surgical methods and the prime importance of post-operative orthophonic re-education; results have proved very satisfactory three to six months after the operation.