Trends in Voice Rehabilitation in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Three main basic forms of vocal rehabilitation are available for post-laryngectomy patients in this country: oesophageal, mechanical vibrator and valved speech. In Sheffield, we advocate the use of valved speech, and insertion of the prosthesis preferably at the time of laryngectomy. We studied current vocal rehabilitation trends in the United Kingdom by a random survey of 100 consultant otolaryngologists and present our findings here. While all forms of vocal rehabilitation are provided in the majority of centres, 20% of units involved in head and neck surgery do not have optimum levels of speech therapy involvement.