Review of the Electrolarynx: The Past and Present

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this article is to provide a review of the neck-type electrolarynx, describe acoustic and perceptual characteristics of electrolaryngeal speech, and highlight the potential impact of electrolaryngeal speech on voice-related quality of life postlaryngectomy, concluding by describing efforts to improve electrolaryngeal speech rehabilitation. Although several alaryngeal communication options exist, the electrolarynx is the most readily available means of producing voice and speech postlaryngectomy. This is due to the small and handheld nature of an electrolaryngeal device, which is commonly placed against the neck during use. Research suggests that approximately half of laryngectomees use an electrolarynx up to 2 years postlaryngectomy. Conclusion Given the importance of the electrolarynx postlaryngectomy, decisions should be made in conjunction with the laryngectomee. It is important to ask: Why not an electrolarynx?

The Effect of Clear Speech on Cantonese Alaryngeal Speakers’ Intelligibility

“…Alaryngeal speaking methods differ in the generation of sound energy used for voice and speech production. These methods can be generally categorized into 2 groups: ES and TE utilize an intrinsic sound source for phonation [ 5 ], and electrolaryngeal speech requires the use of an extrinsic sound source (i.e., an electrolarynx [EL]) [ 6 , 7 ]. More specifically, ES and TE speech rely on the vibration of the pharyngoesophageal segment, which is also known as the neoglottis, as a postlaryngectomy voicing source.…”