Laryngectomy glossary

Larynx – The voice box, or larynx, is the part of the respiratory (breathing) tract containing the vocal cords which produce sound.

Multidisciplinary team – A Multidisciplinary Team is a group care team of professionals from one or more clinical disciplines who together make decisions regarding the recommended treatment of a patient.

Speech and language therapist – Speech and language therapists provide treatment, support and care for those who have difficulties with communication, or with eating, drinking and swallowing.

Stoma (tracheostoma) – A stoma is a hole (opening) made in the skin in front of your neck to allow you to breathe. The opening is made at the base of your neck. Air goes in and out of your windpipe (trachea) and lungs through this hole.

Total laryngectomy – Is the removal of the larynx and separation of the airway from the mouth, nose, and esophagus.

Voice box – The voice box, or larynx, is the portion of the respiratory (breathing) tract containing the vocal cords which produce sound.