Fiberoptic examination of the pharyngoesophageal segment in tracheoesophageal speakers.

Objective: To describe a novel use of flexible fiberoptic endoscopy to examine the pharyngoesophageal segment, upper esophagus, and distal end of the tracheoesophageal prosthesis in patients who have undergone a total laryngectomy and a tracheoesophageal puncture.

Methods: Five patients with poor-quality or no tracheoesophageal voice were evaluated by a speech pathologist and an otolaryngologist. A flexible endoscope interfaced with a video monitoring device was introduced transnasally and passed through the pharyngoesophageal segment. Examination of the anatomical relationship between the prosthesis and the esophageal mucosa was conducted while the subjects attempted to phonate. Treatments were then initiated based on the endoscopic findings.

Conclusion: Flexible endoscopy is a safe, cost-effective, diagnostic tool for evaluating laryngectomees suffering from poor-quality tracheoesophageal voice.