Study on acquisition of voice function after operation by tracheoesophageal shunt with placement of voice prosthesis

Tracheoesophageal shunt with placement of a voice prosthesis (VP) has been performed in our department since January 2010. The total number of patients through April 2013 was 22, and here a detailed investigation was carried out on all of these cases. The VP was Provox 2® in all patients. A useful voice was successfully acquired in 18 of the 22 patients (82%) in whom Provox 2® was used. The VP was useful in vocalization of alaryngeal speech, but needed regular replacement. The reasons for replacement, case details, and measures taken against poor vocalization are examined in this study. Maximum phonation time (MPT) could be measured in 18 patients, and among these MPT was >10 seconds in 10 patients. The mean timing for VP replacement was four months. The reason for replacement was water leakage in most cases. Swallowing was good, and was not affected by the surgery.