Laryngectomy

A surgical procedure to remove all or part of the larynx (voice box), most commonly performed as treatment for laryngeal cancer. Total laryngectomy removes the entire larynx and separates the airway from the mouth, nose, and esophagus, requiring the person (called a laryngectomee) to breathe through a permanent opening in the neck (stoma). After laryngectomy, natural speech is no longer possible, and individuals must learn alternative methods of communication such as electrolarynx devices, esophageal speech (using swallowed air), or tracheoesophageal puncture with a voice prosthesis. The loss of natural voice significantly impacts quality of life, social interaction, and emotional wellbeing, making speech rehabilitation and assistive technology critically important for this population.