Aerodynamics of the Pseudo-Glottis (original) (raw)

Objective: The aim of this work is to study the hitherto unclear aerodynamic parameters of the pseudo-glottis following total laryngectomy. These parameters include airflow rate, sub-pseudo-glottic pressure (SubPsG), efficiency and resistance, as well as sound pressure level (SPL). Patients and Methods: Eighteen male patients who have undergone total laryngectomy, with an age range from 54 to 72 years, were investigated in this study. All tested patients were fluent esophageal ‘voice’ speakers utilizing tracheo-esophageal prosthesis. The airflow rate, SubPsG and SPL were measured. Results: The results showed that the mean value of the airflow rate was 53 ml/s, the SubPsG pressure was 13 cm H2O, while the SPL was 66 dB. The normative data obtained from the true glottis in healthy age-matched subjects are 89 ml/s, 7.9 cm H2O and 70 dB, respectively. Other aerodynamic indices were calculated and compared to the data obtained from the true glottis. Conclusion: Such a comparison of the p...