This site really starts with the laryngectomy and is for everyone interested in the lives of laryngectomees. However we feel it is important to put it all in context and relate the story of what happens before and after the operation and, of course, what happens at the time of the operation.

The laryngectomy road could be started by damage to the Larynx e.g a road accident. I think though it is fair to say that most cases start with a persistant 'sore' throat. Speaking is rough or squeaky and doesn't get any better.

The sore throat is examined and biopsies taken. These are examined to see if the tumour is malignant, a better term is invasive. A course of radiation is usually precribed but in some cases the tumour might be to far developed for that. Chemotherapy is not often used as this has the effect of perhaps curing the cancer but leaves the larynx unable to perform it's function.

The operation involves an incision from the front of the neck up towards the ears. The size is dependant on what needs removing. Sometimes lymph glands are removed and that necessitates a larger incision.

The following link show Ron Batty going through the first few days of recovery.

Check out Ron's Operation Pics

Leaving hospital usually means having ones hands full of gadgets. A Servox artificial larynx is a handy device to have available. When switched on it produces a vibration which can be placed against the side of the neck and then one can move the mouth in the normal talking way and audible speech will follow. Over time one will learn oesophagal speech or one may have a TEP inserted in a puncture that is created between the trachea and the oesophagus. This TEP can be worked by blowing air through it which causes the oesophagal area to vibrate thus simulating the operation of larynx. Speech will follow after some practice. It's also normal to have a nebuliser which can be used occasionally and will allow you to breathe some moist air which is good for your lungs.

Post-operative care is probably quite different depending on where you are. In my particular case I attended the ENT clinic once a month for the first six months then every two months for another period of time. I am now on six monthly checkups and I will have been a laryngectomee for three years in February, 2004 (it's January now). I am also very fortunate that my local hospital runs a 'Drop-In' clinic for laryngectomees. This runs on a weekly basis and means larygectomees can drop in for some basic treatment, advice, speech therapy or just for a cup of coffee and a chat and a bit of reassurance.