In:
The Laryngoscope, Wiley, Vol. 108, No. 2 ( 1998-02), p. 257-260
Abstract:
Previous studies have demonstrated the positive effect of a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) on the respiratory system in patients after laryngectomy. However, patient compliance with these devices was reduced by device‐related problems and troublesome combination with a voice prosthesis. Recently a more specialized device has become available. This is an HME combined with a valve for easy digital occlusion of the stoma (Provox Stomafilter; Hörby, Sweden). In the authors' initial study of this revised device, a clear improvement in short‐term compliance was demonstrated. To investigate long‐term compliance, 69 consecutive patients were interviewed by means of a structured questionnaire. The results show that all patients expressed their satisfaction with the valve used for digital occlusion of the stoma. Sixty‐three percent of the patients reported that voicing was facilitated. Subjective intelligibility improved in 55% of the patients. Previous problems with other devices(e.g., plaster adherence, skin irritation, and handling) were clearly diminished, increasing the long‐term compliance of the patients to 78%. This new HME can be considered as a beneficial pulmonary rehabilitation tool for laryngectomized patients.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0023-852X
,
1531-4995
DOI:
10.1097/00005537-199802000-00018
Language:
English
Publisher:
Wiley
Publication Date:
1998
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2026089-1
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