Laryngectomized patients' education and follow-up

Abstract

Functional and aesthetic problems due to mutilating surgical excisions and adjuvant radiotherapy prolonging the therapeutic period and increasing consequences, are common to all cervicofacial tumors. Laryngectomy is the most representative example, because it affects the aero-digestive tract, the site of major functions; breathing, phonation and swallowing. It necessitates excellent information to the patient post-operatively, and then adapted rehabilitation requiring the learning of oesophageal speech. A close follow-up is required to track loco-regional relapses, secondary neoplastic sites and metastases, cessation of alcohol and tobacco use, and to provide family, social and professional rehabilitation. There are often problems to manage with socio-culturally disadvantaged classes, and physically and psychologically fragile patients, whose hope of surviving is, in general, mediocre.