A laryngectomy guide
The basic to get started
A total laryngectomy is a surgery performed in the advanced stages of cancer. The procedure involves removing your voice box – also called the larynx. After a laryngectomy, breathing happens via an opening in the neck instead of the nose and mouth.
Undergoing a total laryngectomy can be an overwhelming experience, but you shouldn’t feel isolated. There are more than 100,000 people worldwide that have undergone the same operation and proven it’s possible to maintain your quality of life.
What is a total laryngectomy?
A life-changing surgery
The larynx plays several important roles. It houses the vocal folds that make our voice sound. The larynx also helps us to breathe and swallow. Therefore, removal of the voice box not only leads to changes in the voice, but also changes in breathing, swallowing, and smelling.
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Life after laryngectomy
Before total laryngectomy
Before surgery, you would breathe through your nose, mouth and throat – or what is known as the ‘upper airways’ .
After total laryngectomy
After a laryngectomy, breathing happens via an opening in the neck instead of the nose and mouth.
A new way of breathing
Breathing after laryngectomy
The function of your nose
Your nose does more than just smell – it heats, humidifies, and filters the air you breathe. In this way, you can be sure the air is at the right body temperature and contains enough moisture when it reaches your lungs for them to function properly.
After your total laryngectomy, you will breathe through the stoma in your neck so these nasal functions are lost. Breathing through an open stoma causes the temperature and humidity in your lungs to drop. The lungs react to this by producing more mucus, meaning you have to cough more (similar to having a cold) and your windpipe can feel irritated.
Hear from others who are living with a laryngectomy
Read stories from those who have undergone a laryngectomy
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CareTips sheets
Learn how to care for your stoma, clean your voice prosthesis or how to change your adhesive. We have a range of tips and tricks to help you learn about living with a laryngectomy.
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