Tracheo-oesophageal puncture

Tracheo-oesophageal puncture is a surgical procedure that allows a person to speak after having their larynx, or voice box, removed. This procedure is often performed during a total laryngectomy, which is a surgery to treat severe laryngeal cancer.

Procedure

The tracheo-oesophageal puncture is a small hole made between the trachea (windpipe) and the oesophagus (food pipe). A small one-way valve is inserted into this hole which allows air to pass from the trachea into the oesophagus, but not the other way around. When the person covers the stoma (the hole in the neck left by the laryngectomy), the air is forced through the valve and into the oesophagus, where it vibrates to create sound. This sound is then formed into speech by the mouth and lips.

Benefits

The main benefit of a tracheo-oesophageal puncture is that it allows a person to speak again after a laryngectomy. While the voice may sound different than before, it is usually loud and clear enough to be understood by others. This can greatly improve a person's quality of life after surgery.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a tracheo-oesophageal puncture. These can include infection, bleeding, and the valve becoming blocked or dislodged. However, these risks are generally low and can be managed with appropriate care and follow-up.

See also

• Laryngectomy
• Laryngeal cancer
• Trachea
• Oesophagus