Placement of voice prosthesis

When possible, a voice prosthesis is placed during laryngectomy to enable patients to talk again as soon as possible. This can be done in most patients.

During placement of the prosthesis, a connection is created between the windpipe and oesophagus. This connection is a type of duct and is called a fistula.

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The voice prosthesis, a synthetic valve, is placed in this duct.
If a voice prosthesis leaks, it will have to be changed. This is done in outpatient clinics, usually every 3-4 months.

In some patients, a voice prosthesis cannot be placed during laryngectomy.

After complete wound healing and any additional treatments such as irradiation, insertion of a voice prosthesis is usually possible.