A laryngectomy is the surgical removal of the larynx, which is necessary in the case of cancer of the larynx (laryngeal carcinoma) or the deep pharynx (hypopharyngeal carcinoma). During the operation, the esophagus and trachea are first separated. The pharynx only leads into the oesophagus. The trachea ends in an opening in the neck, a so-called tracheostoma. At the same time, a neck dissection is performed to remove the cervical lymph nodes. Radiotherapy is then necessary.

A laryngectomy is a serious surgical procedure for the patient, as the removal of the voice-producing larynx inevitably results in a loss of voice. Using a special surgical method, it is possible to create a connection between the trachea and oesophagus and insert a shunt valve. This makes it possible for the exhaled air to pass through the oesophagus into the throat, mouth and nose and thus be used for voice production. The so-called substitute voice can also be produced by an electronic speech aid (electrolarynx) or as an esophageal substitute voice (ructus voice). Each patient is individually assessed to find the best option for them.