If your voice box, also known as the larynx, is removed in a surgical procedure called a laryngectomy, you will lose your voice. This is the most significant immediate consequence of the surgery concerning speech.
A laryngectomy involves the removal of the larynx, which contains the vocal cords. These cords vibrate to produce sound when air passes through them from the lungs. Without the larynx and vocal cords, this natural mechanism for producing voice is no longer available.
Based on information regarding this procedure, after having your voice box removed (laryngectomy) you will lose your voice. This change can be difficult to cope with in the beginning as you adjust to communicating without your natural voice.
Communication After Laryngectomy
While the natural voice is lost, individuals who undergo a laryngectomy can learn and utilize various methods to communicate:
- Alternative Speech Methods: Your speech and language therapist plays a crucial role. They will show you different ways of communication to help you adapt. These methods can include:
- Esophageal speech: Learning to speak by using the esophagus as a source of voice.
- Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) speech: Using a prosthesis inserted into a surgical opening between the trachea and esophagus, which allows air to vibrate tissues and produce sound.
- Electrolarynx: A battery-operated device held against the neck that produces a mechanical sound that is then shaped into words by the mouth and tongue.
- Non-Verbal Communication: Many people also rely on writing, gestures, or electronic communication devices (like text-to-speech apps) to supplement their communication methods.
Support and Adjustment
Adjusting to the loss of voice and learning new communication techniques takes time and practice. As noted, this can be difficult initially. Your speech and language therapist provides essential support during this period, guiding you through the process of finding and mastering the communication method that best suits your needs.
Learning alternative ways to speak or communicate effectively allows individuals to continue participating in conversations and maintaining their social interactions after a laryngectomy.
