Hospital | |
Laryngectomy
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionA laryngectomy is a full or partial removal of the voice box (larynx).
Reasons for ProcedureThis surgery is done to treat cancer of the voice box. It may also be done to treat trauma to the voice box. Possible ComplicationsProblems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
Things that may raise the risk of problems are: What to ExpectPrior to ProcedureThe surgical team may meet with you to talk about:
AnesthesiaGeneral anesthesia will be used. You will be asleep. Description of the ProcedureAn incision will be made in the skin on the neck. The muscles that are attached to the voice box will be separated. The voice box and tissue around it will be removed. A partial laryngectomy may be done. The doctor will remove only part of the voice box. This will allow for some normal speech and swallowing. An opening called a stoma will be made from the outside of the neck to the windpipe. This is called a tracheostomy. It will allow for breathing. Drainage tubes will be inserted to drain blood and fluid. The incisions will be closed. Bandages will be placed over the area. How Long Will It Take?5 to 9 hours Will It Hurt?Pain and swelling are common in the first 1 to 2 weeks. Medicine and home care can help. Average Hospital StayThe usual length of stay is 7 to 14 days. You may need to stay longer if you have problems. Post-procedure CareAt the HospitalRight after the procedure, the staff may:
During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to lower your risk of infection, such as:
There are also steps you can take to lower your risk of infection, such as:
At HomeIt will take about a month to recover. Physical activity will be limited during recovery. You will need to ask for help with daily activities and delay return to work. Call Your DoctorCall your doctor if you are not getting better or you have:
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away. RESOURCES:American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov References:Chow LQM. Head and Neck Cancer. N Engl J Med. 2020 Jan 2;382(1):60-72. Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/laryngeal-and-hypopharyngeal-cancer.html.
Accessed December 7, 2020.
Management of head and neck cancer—based on cancer site. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/management/management-of-head-and-neck-cancer-based-on-cancer-site. Accessed December 7, 2020.
Last reviewed September 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Marcin Chwistek, MD | |