Aspiration of tracheoesophageal prosthesis in a laryngectomized patient.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The voice prosthesis inserted into a tracheoesophageal fistula has become the most widely used device for voice rehabilitation in patients with total laryngectomy.

CASE PRESENTATION:

We describe a case of tracheoesophageal prosthesis' (TEP) aspiration in a laryngectomized patient, with permanent tracheal stoma, that appeared during standard cleaning procedure, despite a programme of training for the safe management of patients with voice prosthesis.

CONCLUSIONS:

The definitive diagnosis and treatment were performed by flexible bronchoscopy, that may be considered the procedure of choice in these cases, also on the basis of the literature.

• Authors: Sergio C Conte, Elena De Nardi, Federico Conte, Stefano Nardini
• Journal: Multidisciplinary respiratory medicine (Multidiscip Respir Med) Vol. 7 Issue 1 Pg. 25 (Aug 09 2012) ISSN: 2049-6958 [Electronic] Italy
• PMID: 22958961 (Publication Type: Journal Article)