ARTIFICIAL LARYNX

Typical Number in Hospital: 10

Cost Bands: 1,2

References: 4

Where the larynx has been surgically removed, typically due to cancer, it is impossible to produce the vibrating sound necessary for speech. An artificial larynx is a vibrating source to provide air vibrations similar to the normal larynx. By the normal use of the mouth and tongue intelligible speech can be produced.

There are three main types of this device:

1. After tracheostomy air may be forced through a special device to create vibrations similar to those made by the normal larynx, and this air may be piped to the artificial opening in the neck to allow articulation in the mouth.

2. An electronic generator operating through a tube placed into the mouth can produce a similar effect.

3. The most common type in use at present is a small hand-held vibrator which is pressed against the neck or face so that vibrations are transmitted into the airway. This is rather like using an electric shaver pressed against the neck, and allows the user to carry on conversations or speak over the telephone. The speech is understandable but sounds artificial.