Fungal colonization of tracheoesophageal voice prosthesis

Abstract

Laryngectomized patients fitted with tracheoesophageal (TE) puncture voice prosthesis may experience frequent failures in adequate production of neophonation. In some cases, these phonatory problems result from obstruction of the voice prosthesis with various deposits. The nature of these deposits was studied with mycologic techniques and by light and scanning electron microscopy. Candida albicans and other fungal species were identified.

Prevention of biofilm formation by dairy products and N-Acetylcysteine on voice prostheses in an artificial throat

“…Although many authors have reported that yeast species are mainly responsible for the deterioration of voice prostheses (2,3,21), the role of bacteria in the formation of a biofilm must not be underestimated.…”

Microbial colonization of Provox voice prosthesis in the Indian scenario

“…[1] Although, we continue our efforts in providing our patients with a device, which last for longer duration majority of patients develop device dysfunction and require a change within 6-8 months. [2][3][4] Biofilm development has been considered the most important reason for silicon degradation and prosthesis related dysfunction. The prosthesis is colonized by the microorganisms (bacteria + yeast strains) from the 1 st min it's placed in the trachesoesophageal puncture.…”

“…[1] Although, there have been significant developments in the design of the silicon indwelling voice prosthesis majority of them eventually develop dysfunction due to microbial deterioration. [2][3][4] This leads to a shortened lifespan of the prostheses causing frequent replacements and adds up to the financial burden and above all deteriorating the quality-of-life of patient. In the published literature the average lifespan of voice prosthesis is around 4-8 months.…”

“…In the published literature the average lifespan of voice prosthesis is around 4-8 months. [4] This data predominantly includes studies, which have evaluated western population. It has been our general observation that Indian patients have a longer prosthesis lifespan, i.e.…”

Surgical voice restoration after total laryngectomy: long-term results

“…For rapid deterioration of the prosthesis related to fungal colonization and erosion [13], treatment concentrates on frequent cleaning of the prosthesis or replacement with a new one. A change of the prosthesis was also required in 5% of extrusion cases, and there was 1.9% incidence of prosthesis deglutition, 9.8% of prosthesis collision with the posterior pharyngeal wall, and 14.4% of prosthesis upside down.…”