*Please note this section of the website is a work in progress*

What is a laryngectomy?

A laryngectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the larynx (the voice box). This is most commonly performed to treat advanced laryngeal cancer or severe damage to the throat. In the UK, about 600–800 people undergo a total laryngectomy every year. 

During the operation, the airway is separated from the mouth and nose. To allow you to breathe safely, an opening is created at the base of the neck, known as a stoma.

You can read a more details guide on laryngectomy on the MacMillan website

How Life Changes

It is important to understand that while life changes after a laryngectomy, it certainly does not stop. Here are the three main areas that are affected:

  • Breathing: You will now breathe through the stoma in your neck instead of your nose and mouth.

     

  • Speaking: Because the voice box is removed, your natural voice will change. However, there are several modern ways to speak again, including TEP valves, Electrolarynx devices, or Oesophageal speech.

     

  • Eating & Drinking: Your "food pipe" (oesophagus) remains intact. Most people return to a normal diet once they have healed from the surgery.