Faculty Publications

The Effects Of A Total Laryngectomy On Speech Breathing

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Laryngectomy, Respiration, Speech breathing, Tracheoesophageal speech

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Current Opinion in Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery

Volume

16

Issue

3

First Page

200

Last Page

204

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Alaryngeal speech rehabilitation following a total laryngectomy is a multifactorial disorder that includes changes in phonation, respiration, and overall general health. Tracheoesophageal speech is the preferred method of rehabilitation. In this approach, pulmonary air support is diverted from the trachea into the esophagus to generate voicing. Tracheoesophageal speakers must overcome radical upper airway changes, increased resistance in the phonatory source, reduced sensory feedback from the respiratory system, and probable respiratory compromise. This review integrates previous laryngectomy research with recent studies investigating kinematics in tracheoesophageal speakers. RECENT FINDINGS: Tracheoesophageal speakers are often very intelligible and communicate effectively, but little has been done to investigate the physiological demands of tracheoesophageal speech on speakers. Two recent studies have specifically investigated speech breathing behaviors in tracheoesophageal speakers. Both investigations reported increased effort and differences in speech breathing compared to laryngeal speakers; however, continued research is needed to understand the effects of a total laryngectomy on speech breathing. SUMMARY: The physiological changes following a laryngectomy, especially in the ability to produce tracheoesophageal speech, are not well known. Rehabilitation for these individuals requires an understanding of the changes in respiration that might influence speech breathing behaviors. © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.

Department

Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

Original Publication Date

6-1-2008

DOI of published version

10.1097/MOO.0b013e3282fe96ac

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