The VoiceMaster voice prosthesis for the laryngectomized patient

• Published in: Clinical otolaryngology and allied sciences Vol. 23; no. 6; pp. 555 - 559
• Main Authors: SCHOUWENBURG, P.F., EERENSTEIN, S.E.J., GROLMAN, W.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Science Ltd 01-12-1998
• Subjects: alaryngeal speech; artificial larynx; Candida silicones; Candidiasis - prevention & control; Humans; laryngectomy; Laryngectomy - rehabilitation; Larynx, Artificial; Prosthesis Design; prosthesis design and failure; Prosthesis Failure; Prosthesis Implantation - instrumentation; Prosthesis Implantation - methods; Prosthesis-Related Infections - prevention & control; Safety; Tracheoesophageal Fistula; voice rehabilitation
• ISSN: 0307-7772; 1365-2273
• DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2273.1998.2360555.x

Since the introduction and performance of total laryngectomy, voice restoration has become an important issue. Voice prostheses are widely used for this purpose. Based on experience with previous and current prostheses, the important characteristics for any voice prosthesis can be defined. These characteristics are: indwelling fixation, low resistance to airflow, less bothersome and easier insertion into the tracheoesophageal (TE) fistula. Also, predictable long device life span (resistance to Candida deterioration) and easy removal of the prosthesis to allow inspection or cleaning and consequent re‐insertion are desirable. The VoiceMaster voice prosthesis was developed with these characteristics in mind. The VoiceMaster prosthesis is described in this paper. The first results from the preliminary study in which the currently available VoiceMaster was tested are very encouraging.