An air bypass voice prosthesis and the refinement of a surgical technique has been developed. It involves a one-stage, low retrograde cervical esophagostomy that is functionally and cosmetically feasible since it permits hidden use of the device, while eliminating fistula tract stenosis and aspiration. Most importantly, it provides a natural speech mechanism without any training period. Patients can regain immediate speech following installation of a voice prosthesis with a minimum of maintenance required. Ultimately, they have demonstrated greater self-reliance and developed a high degree of self-esteem which has enabled them to resume a normal way of life.
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References
1.
BlomED: A Comparative Investigation of Acoustical and Perceptual Features of Esophageal Speech and Speech with the Taub Prosthesis, dissertation, University of Maryland, 1972
