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Total Laryngectomy Counseling (Speech Pathology)

last modified on: Thu, 02/29/2024 - 18:39

ROUTINE PREOPERATIVE TEACHING OF THE ADULT PATIENT 

 see also:

return to: Speech Pathology Protocols

Objective:

  • Patient/family will verbalize understanding of anatomical and physiological changes following total laryngectomy.
  • Patient/family will be introduced to laryngeal speech methods and to devices and products typically helpful to laryngectomees.

Content:

  • Basic overview of head and neck anatomy and physiology as pertaining to voice, speech, smell, air filtration/humidification, and swallowing.
  • Compare to post-total laryngectomy anatomy and physiology utilizing diagrams and models. Stress importance of safety around bodies of water, poor sense of smell, and benefits of covering the stoma with a filter.
  • Educate regarding potential swallowing difficulties following surgery.
  • Educate patient regarding potential methods of communication esophageal speech, tracheoesophageal voice prosthesis, artificial larynx (electrolarynx, UltraVoice system, etc.), and augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) devices (Lightwriter, DynaVox, etc.).
  • Show videos of laryngectomees using an artificial larynx, esophageal speech, AAC device, and tracheoesophageal speech.
  • Further discussion of pros and cons of each communication method.
  • Show patient sample products such as stoma filter, shower shield, and medical alert bracelet.
  • Encourage patient to express feelings regarding body image communication, or lifestyle changes to speech-language pathologist and other health care providers.