This article examines the problems in assessing the proliferation of devices that have emerged internationally in the field of postlaryngectorny voice restoration. Success or failure of the procedure will certainly depend on the subjects chosen and the device(s) used. The selection of potential subjects may be greatly improved by using the classification we have evolved from analyzing videofluoroscopic studies of over 200 laryngectomees. This classification is currently being validated by undertaking pressure and acoustic measures in existing laryngectomized subjects. These results are discussed in the text. HEAD & NECK SURGERY 10:S110-S117,1988.
In 1983, having read of the work of Drs. Blom and Singer' in Indianapolis and their attempts at surgical speech rehabilitation after laryngectomy, we decided to begin a similar program of rehabilitation at Charing Cross Hospital in London.
If one compares laryngeal, esophageal, and tracheoesophageal "puncture" speech, it is evi-Acknowledgments: This project was supported by a Northwest Thames Regional Health Authority grant and could not have been undertaken without the inspiration and continued support of my colleagues, Mr. A.D. Cheesman, FRCS, Consultant Head and Neck Surgeon and Dr. James Mclvor. FRCR, Consultant Radiologist. Advice has also been generously given by Professor A. Guz, Head of Medicine at Charing Cross.