Evaluation of Blom-Singer voice prosthesis

Tracheoesophageal puncture and use of a silicone prosthesis is becoming a common and highly effective procedure for voice rehabilitation in the alaryngeal patient. Radiologic evaluations were reviewed of 31 patients scheduled for tracheoesophageal puncture at this institution over the past 3 years. Barium swallow examinations were performed preoperatively to assess anatomy and muscular activity of the pharyngoesophagus. Examinations were performed postoperatively when complications were suspected, phonation was unsatisfactory, or as routine oncologic follow-up. Postoperative complications included neck abscess, cervical osteomyelitis, and feeding tube dissection into the anterior wall of the thoracic esophagus. This method of pre- and postoperative radiologic evaluation of these patients is presented, along with the radiologic manifestations of the complications.
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