Laryngectomy
This topic will help you understand the laryngectomy procedure, and how to prepare for it.
What Is a Laryngectomy?
It is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the larynx, (voice box). The larynx is located above the trachea, and connects your nose and mouth to your lungs, helping you speak, breathe, and swallow.
When Is a Laryngectomy Performed?
- A doctor may resort to performing a laryngectomy if the patient suffers from:
- Laryngeal cancer.
- A fracture in the larynx.
- Severe damage to the larynx due to trauma or injury.
Laryngeal cartilage necrosis, (a rare condition in which radiation therapy causes larynx damage).
Depending on the patient’s health condition, the doctor decides whether a total or partial laryngectomy is needed.
How to Prepare for a Laryngectomy?
- Before a laryngectomy, the doctor may recommend a full physicalexamination, along with imaging and tests that may include:
- A complete blood count, or other routine blood tests.
- Chest X-ray.EKG).
Electrocardiogram (EKG).
- You will also be referred to other specialists, such as a speech and language pathologist, and a swallowing specialist, who will help you prepare for recovery and resuming normal life after the laryngectomy. Before the procedure:
- Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure, and you can ask any questions.
- You will be asked to sign a consent form, granting them permission to perform the procedure. Read the form carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
- You will be asked about the last time you ate or drank anything. If the procedure is planned and requires general anesthesia, you will be asked not to eat or drink anything for 8 hours prior to the procedure.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to medications or anesthesia.
- Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, (prescribed and over-the-counter), vitamins, herbs, and supplements you are taking.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of bleeding disorders, or if you are taking any blood-thinning medications, (anticoagulants), aspirin, or other medications affecting blood clotting, as you may be asked to stop these medications before the procedure.
