Electrolarynx
An electrolarynx is an electronic device designed to assist individuals who have lost their ability to speak due to the surgical removal of the larynx, commonly as a result of laryngeal cancer. This device generates vibrations that can be shaped into speech using the tongue, lips, teeth, and cheeks. There are two primary types of electrolarynx devices: one that is battery-powered and placed against the throat, and another that uses a small tube inserted into the mouth to transmit vibrations directly. The cost of these devices typically ranges from $500 to $1,200, with many insurance plans and some states covering part or all of the expenses.
Effective communication with an electrolarynx often involves creating a conducive environment, such as minimizing background noise and maintaining visual contact during conversations. Users may enhance their speech clarity by exaggerating certain sounds or using nonverbal cues like nods. While the electrolarynx serves as a valuable communication tool, alternative options, including esophageal speech, voice prostheses, and advanced technologies like AI-powered devices, are also available for individuals seeking to regain their voice.
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Subject Terms
Electrolarynx
ALSO KNOWN AS: Artificial or mechanical larynx, AE or EL, throat back
DEFINITION: The electrolarynx is an electronic device that allows a person with laryngeal cancer to communicate after having the larynx or voice box surgically removed.
Communication after a laryngectomy: Laryngeal cancer can affect various places in the voice box, or larynx. One treatment is partial or total laryngectomy, which is the surgical removal of the larynx. This leaves the patient without the capacity for speech and voice communication. Written communication is effective, but it may prove frustrating for patients. One option available for these patients is the electrolarynx, an electromechanical medical device used to make vibrations to produce sound that the patient can form into words with the tongue, lips, teeth, and cheeks.
Types of electrolarynx devices: Two devices for speech are available after the loss of the voice to cancer. One is the battery-powered machine that is placed against the patient’s throat. The patient pushes a button, and the device transmits vibrations that can be formed into words. In the second type, a small tube in the mouth receives vibrations directly into the mouth, with words made in a similar way.
Charges for an electrolarynx can vary from $500 to $1,200, depending on the brand, model, and accessories. Both private insurance and Medicare may cover all or part of the costs. Some states provide these free of charge.
Enhancing communication: The patient using an electrolarynx can make communication easier by controlling the environment. When the patient talks to someone, it helps both people to look at each other and remain in the same room or area, as part of successful communication is visual. Choosing an area without distracting background noise, such as a television, also helps. The patient can also use nonverbal communication, such as nodding or shaking the head, and can exaggerate consonants and prolong vowels to produce intelligible speech. Carrying a pen and paper as a backup may ease frustration.
Although electrolarynx devices are still in use by patients following a laryngectomy, other options are also available. Esophageal speech is a technique in which patients create words by manipulating swallowed air. A voice prosthesis created through a tracheoesophageal puncture has become common as well. In this method, a small valve placed between the trachea and the esophagus diverts air from the lungs into the esophagus to produce clear speech. A Syrinx is an electrolarynx powered by artificial intelligence that can mimic the patient’s voice. Finally, larynx and trachea transplants can also be performed.
Bibliography
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Cox, Steven R, and Philip C Doyle. “The Influence of Electrolarynx Use on Postlaryngectomy Voice-Related Quality of Life.” Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery: Official Journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, vol. 150.6, 2014, pp. 1005-9, doi:10.1177/0194599814524704.
“Electrolarynx - Laryngeal Cancer.” Cancer Research UK, 14 Dec. 2021, www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/laryngeal-cancer/living-with/speaking-after-laryngectomy/electrolarynx. Accessed 22 June 2024.
Perrachione, Tyler K., et al. "Talker Identification across Source Mechanisms: Experiments with Laryngeal and Electrolarynx Speech." Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research : JSLHR, vol. 57, no. 5, 2014, p. 1651, doi.org/10.1044/2014‗JSLHR-S-13-0161. Accessed 22 June 2024.
“Throat Cancer Follow-Up - Living as a Throat Cancer Survivor.” American Cancer Society, 21 Jan. 2021, www.cancer.org/cancer/types/laryngeal-and-hypopharyngeal-cancer/after-treatment/follow-up.html. Accessed 22 June 2024.