Rehabilitation After LARYNGECTOMY

Psychologic and Anamnestic Patterns Characteristic of Laryngectomees; Relation to Speech Rehabilitation

“…Thus, there are now more than 9 laryngectomees per 100,000 population in this area. It was estimated in 1961 (3) that annually in the United States laryngeal carcinoma develops in 5,000 people, of whom 2,500 undergo laryngectomy. Seventy per cent of these people are aged 60 or younger.…”

“…The successes and difficulties related to speech rehabilitation deserve mention. As Gilmore (3) has stated, it is theoretically possible to impart esophageal speech to at least 90 per cent of laryngectomees. No speech instructor, however, has achieved such a measure of success.…”

Adjusting to Laryngectomy

“…The healthy competition adds a spark of motivation; experienced speakers are models for the inexperienced, and coping strategies are shared. In general, laryngectomees sense a strong feeling of identity with others in their group, and take comfort from their support (Gilmore, 1961;Russell, 1944). Group therapy for alaryngeal speakers is available in some speech clinics and at many New Voice Club meetings throughout the country.…”