Episode 54: Tracheoesophageal Speech After Laryngectomy with Lynn Hawk, MA, CCC-SLP
This week, Lynn Hawk joins Leigh Ann to provide a thorough examination of voice rehabilitation after laryngectomy. We focus on establishing a framework of how the Tracheoesophageal Prosthetic (TEP) works to provide voicing for patients with a laryngectomy. Next, attention is given to maintaining the TEP with regular cleanings and leak tests. Patients with TEPs encounter challenges with leaking around the puncture site and Lynn provides techniques for troubleshooting.
topics covered:
Foundational knowledge in voice production with typical and atypical anatomy.
Anatomical changes after laryngectomy.
How a TEP - tracheoesophageal prosthetic - works
structure of a TEP (flanges, lumen, valve)
how a TEP is placed (tracheoesophageal puncture procedure)
characteristics of voice quality with TEP
Appropriate candidates for TEP.
Troubleshooting TEP issues (including candida, leaking, etc.)
Leak testing and steps to take if a patient's TEP is leaking.
resources mentioned in the episode:
The University of Kansas Health System’s Laryngectomy Video - provided to patients and caregivers for educational purposes
Video of Secondary Puncture (After the Total Laryngectomy is performed)
Video of Primary Puncture (Performed at time of the Total Laryngectomy)
Atos – provides medical equipment and education regarding laryngectomy needs
InHealth – provides medical equipment and education regarding laryngectomy needs
WebWhispers - “WebWhispers was started in 1996 for those who had questions about larynx cancer treatments, surgery, recovery, and what life is like after laryngectomy surgery. We are now the largest support group for individual laryngectomee survivors of larynx and other throat cancers. We offer advice from those who have been there and education at the time it is needed”
The International Association of Laryngectomees - “The International Association of Laryngectomees (IAL) is a non-profit voluntary organization composed of approximately 250 member clubs and recognized regional organizations. These clubs are generally known as “Lost Chord” or ” New Voice” clubs. Clubs are composed of from 10 to more than 300 Laryngectomees. The purpose of the IAL is to assist these local clubs in their efforts towards the total rehabilitation of the Laryngectomee.”
Lary’s Speakeasy - “We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves laryngectomees and their caregivers by providing them with online resources, free educational events, and laryngectomy supplies, including loaner electrolarynx devices.”
Lynn’s Powerpoint on Tracheoesophageal Prosthetic
Lynn Hawk is a speech pathologist specializing in voice and swallow within the department of otolaryngology at the University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City, Kansas. Lynn started working at the KU Voice and Swallow Center shortly after finishing grad school and has been with the department for a little over seven years. Lynn's case load is split between voice, swallow, and head and neck cancer. Lynn has enjoyed the opportunity to complete a variety of in-depth CEUs and trainings in each aforementioned area of practice.
Lynn Hawk, MA, CCC-SLP
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