title: VoiceBak--speech for the speechless.
abstract: The use of plastics in this device has and is playing an important role. The early developmental models of Dr. Taub incorporated a lot of cutting and cementing of plastic tubes and parts in experimenting with the valve design. This provided a much needed flexibility to evolve a workable design. The units being manufactured today by LaBarge, Inc. are a product of the workability of the plastics being used. The durability, or toughness, and ease of cleaning are two important features. The molded silicone rubber parts for the fistula flanged tubes and tension collar replaced the hand-dipped latex rubber tubes. The trach interconnect assembly has replaced the metal trach tube, which was a possible source of irritation to some laryngectomees. The use of silicone rubber parts has been a major milestone in the development of the VoiceBak. For the laryngectomee who wants to talk and is psychologically motivated, the VoiceBak can mean the difference between existing and living. For this laryngectomee, the VoiceBak is truly speech for the speechless.
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D007830:Larynx; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D013071:Speech, Alaryngeal