Laryngeal Prosthesis is a term used in medical science to refer to an artificial replacement for the larynx, which allows patients to speak after undergoing a laryngectomy. The word is pronounced as /ləˈrɪn(d)ʒiəl prɒsˈθiːsɪs/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first part of the word, "laryngeal," comes from the Latin word "larynx," which refers to the voice box in the human throat. The second part, "prosthesis," originates from the Greek word "prosthesis," which means to add to or attach something. Together, these terms describe a medical device that is attached to the larynx to restore speech after surgery.
A laryngeal prosthesis refers to a medical device or implant used to restore the function of the larynx, commonly known as the voice box. The larynx, situated in the neck region, plays a crucial role in the production of sound and enables vocalization.
In cases where an individual has undergone a laryngectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the larynx, a laryngeal prosthesis may be necessary to restore speech. This artificial device acts as a substitute for the natural larynx, enabling individuals to regain their ability to speak and communicate effectively.
Typically, a laryngeal prosthesis consists of two main components - a voice prosthesis and an insertion tool. The voice prosthesis is a small, flexible tube made from medical-grade silicone or similar material. It is surgically placed in a small opening, called a tracheoesophageal puncture, which is created between the trachea and the esophagus. The insertion tool is used during the initial implantation procedure to accurately position and secure the prosthesis.
Once in place, the laryngeal prosthesis allows for the redirection of airflow from the lungs through the tracheostoma (opening on the neck) into the esophagus. This redirection permits the vibration of the walls of the esophagus during speech, producing voice sounds that are then articulated and formed into words by the oral structures, allowing for verbal communication.
Overall, a laryngeal prosthesis is an artificial device that acts as a replacement for the larynx, enabling individuals who have undergone a laryngectomy to regain their ability to speak and communicate effectively.
The word "laryngeal" is derived from the Greek word "larugx" which means "throat". It is related to the Greek word "laruggos" meaning "having a narrow throat". The term "prosthesis" comes from the Greek word "prosthesis" which means "an addition" or "a thing placed before". In medical terminology, a prosthesis refers to an artificial device used to replace or augment a missing or damaged part of the body. Therefore, "laryngeal prosthesis" refers to an artificial device placed in the throat to replace or assist the larynx, which is the organ responsible for speech production.