EXPERIENCES WITH THE GRONINGEN VOICE PROSTHESIS AFTER LARYNGECTOMY

The tracheoesophageal puncture technique with insertion of a valved prosthesis for speech rehabilitation after total laryngectomy is a reliable and simple procedure for successful vocal rehabilitation. The available voice prosthesis can be separated into indwelling and non-indwelling types. The details of the indwelling long-term prostheses (low-pressure Groningen Prosthesis, Nijdam, prosthesis, Provox prosthesis) are discussed. These prostheses need limited patient care. Replacement of the indwelling prosthesis is a simple out-patient procedure, although it is best performed by an ENT-specialist. The local complication rate is low and generally not significant. Hand-free speech is now possible by placement of a tracheostoma valve. Current experiences are encouraging for continued use.