title: Air bypass voice prosthesis for vocal rehabilitation of laryngectomees.
abstract: An air bypass voice prosthesis and the refinement of a surgical technique has been developed. It involves a one-stage, low retrograde cervical esophagostomy that is functionally and cosmetically feasible since it permits hidden use of the device, while eliminating fistula tract stenosis and aspiration. Most importantly, it provides a natural speech mechanism without any training period. Patients can regain immediate speech following installation of a voice prosthesis with a minimum of maintenance required. Ultimately, they have demonstrated greater self-reliance and developed a high degree of self-esteem which has enabled them to resume a normal way of life.
mesh_terms: D000388:Air; D004947:Esophagus / Q000601:surgery; D005402:Fistula; D006801:Humans; D007825:Laryngectomy; D008722:Methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000295:instrumentation; D013071:Speech, Alaryngeal