Long-term results of Amatsu tracheoesophageal shunt: Follow-up of more than 5 years

Background/ObjectiveThe Amatsu tracheoesophageal shunt (ATES) represents a nonprosthesis surgical option for voice restoration in laryngectomized patients. However, data regarding the long-term efficacy of ATES are lacking. Study DesignRetrospective, single-institution study. MethodsBetween 2001 and 2010, 16 patients with laryngeal cancer underwent total laryngectomy with ATES at the Hyogo Cancer Center (Akashi, Hyogo, Japan). Of these, 11 achieved long-term tracheoesophageal speech that was maintained for a follow-up exceeding 5 years (range 75-161 months; median 95 months). All patients were male and ranged from 46 to 74 years of age at the time of ATES surgery. ResultsOf 11 eligible patients, eight were able to speak intelligibly with ATES at last follow-up. Regarding aspiration, three patients experienced no leakage, and six experienced mild leakage of saliva without medical intervention at last follow-up. Almost all patients maintained an unchanged degree of voice quality (9 of 11) and leakage (8 of 11). ConclusionThe favorable voice restoration and low aspiration rates achieved in this study appear to support the long-term efficacy of ATES. Level of Evidence4. Laryngoscope, 128:1395-1397, 2018