After undergoing a total laryngectomy, patients face significant changes in voicing, swallowing, and breathing. A procedure to place a voice prosthesis, known as a tracheoesophageal puncture, can be performed either during the laryngectomy or as a secondary procedure later. Regardless of timing, a voice prosthesis offers the best option for restoring voicing. Device life and ease of voicing are crucial considerations.
Robert Sisler, a 66-year-old retiree from the U.S., underwent a total laryngectomy and faced challenges with short voice prosthesis device life. He shares his journey and how the Atos Provox ActiValve became a game-changer for him. We chatted with Robert, who strived to find his best voice with his healthcare team. His speech pathologists recommended the Provox ActiValve due to frequent voice prosthesis changes (central leakage) and poor voicing outcomes.
Robert shared, "This is the fourth ActiValve voice prosthesis I have had placed. Before the ActiValve, my voice prosthesis device life typically lasted approximately 3 weeks. Once my speech pathologists placed this new voice prosthesis, the ActiValve, my device life has been much longer. The current one is already in its 14th week, and the previous one lasted even longer than that!"
"And today there was no leakage or anything. We were just in clinic checking it out!"
"I really appreciate everything Atos Medical has done for me. From providing devices that help me in my daily life to support from the team. And hey, my voice sounds great too!" Robert added with a smile.
Robert's story is an excellent reminder that with the right products and voice prosthesis at the right time, living with a laryngectomy doesn't have to limit your ability to live your best life. Atos Medical continues to provide innovative solutions, ensuring that each patient reaches their best voice and better quality of life outcomes.
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