Tried or prescribed Laryngectomy? Share your experience.
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This is surgery to remove the larynx (voice box). This is usually done to treat cancer . Depending on the extent of the cancer, a partial laryngectomy may be possible.
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Laryngectomy is done to treat cancer of the larynx. This surgery may also be done to treat damage of the larynx due to trauma .
Possible Complications
If you are planning to have laryngectomy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
- Infection
- Breathing difficulties
- Excessive swelling or bleeding
- Injury to the trachea (windpipe) or esophagus
- Blood clots
- Anesthesia-related problems
- Saliva leaking out to the skin (saliva fistula)
- Inability to speak or aphonia
- Cancer occurs again
Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
- Pre-existing medical condition
- Advanced age
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Previous surgical procedure to the larynx
- Prior radiation or chemotherapy
- Poor nutrition
- Diabetes
Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the surgery.