Speaking after a laryngectomy

Introduction

Your voice is a big part of your identity – it’s how you express your thoughts, feelings and ideas. After a laryngectomy you’ll speak differently. Rest assured, there are options out there to help you regain your speech.

Key points

• A total laryngectomy is the removal of the voice box or larynx which includes your vocal cords.
• The three most common methods of voicing after a total laryngectomy are with a voice prosthesis (‘tracheoesophageal speech’), with an electrolarynx or oesophageal speech.

How voice is produced

Before the laryngectomy, voice sound is produced by the vocal cords located within the larynx. During exhalation, air passes through the vocal cords and sound is produced as they vibrate. The arrow in the illustration below points to the vocal cords.

Your new voice

After the laryngectomy there are several ways to regain your voice:

• Speaking with a voice prosthesis (also called ‘Tracheoesophageal speech’)
• Speaking with an electrolarynx
• Oesophageal speech

Your voice will sound different, because it is no longer coming from your vocal cords. With oesophageal speech and speaking with a voice prosthesis, the sound source will be located in your oesophagus, also known as your 'food pipe'. The arrow in the illustration below points to the new voice source.

Your Speech and Language Therapist can provide you with tips and exercises that help to make your new speaking style as clear as possible.