Introduction to Laryngectomy

The surgical removal of larynx, or the voice box in cases the larynx is affected with cancer or other malignancy is called Laryngectomy. This being a major surgery, affecting a person's speaking ability; there is rehabilitation programs to be undergone to help the patients recover from the changes post the surgery of Laryngectomy.

Procedure of Laryngectomy

There can be partial Laryngectomy, total Laryngectomy or neck dissection depending on the extent of malignancy. In case of Partial Laryngectomy, a small portion of voice box is removed without the need of any cut in the neck and speech is retained. Total Laryngectomy involves full removal of the voice box after which the Trachea which was cut is stitched back to the skin. This is called a stoma(hole) which becomes a permanent breathing hole. Neck Dissection in laryngectomy is when the doctor removes the lymph nodes from the neck to prevent the spread of cancer.

Length of Laryngectomy

After Laryngectomy is done, the length of which depends upon the condition of the patient, the patient is generally advised to go home 5 to 7 days after the surgery.

Side Effects of Laryngectomy

After the surgery, drains are placed under the skin to collect fluid from the neck and help the wound. There are problems in swallowing food or liquid. The patient has to learn to cough, breathe and sneeze through the stoma and talk in a new way till the trach tube is used. So,as side effects of Laryngectomy, there is loss of ability to smell, changes in the food tastes, indigestion and acid washing from the stomach to throat and depression in extreme cases.

Apollo Hospital has ENT specialists and a world class ENT department that offers the latest in surgeries for Laryngectomy and other ENT care. There are specialized expert doctors to take care of Laryngectomy at Apollo Hospital. Apollo also has excellent post surgery care and rehabilitation programs such as speech therapy sessions for people undergoing surgeries like Laryngectomy.

Procedures and Prices

Medical India Tourism in association with Indian Holiday offers online information on Laryngectomy offered by Apollo Hospital. For further details and information, please fill up the form below.