As described above, a permanent tracheostomy is needed after a total laryngectomy. In this case, the opening in the trachea is attached to a hole in the skin in the front of your neck. A trach tube or stoma cover may be needed to help keep the tracheostomy hole open.

Do you have a tracheostomy after a laryngectomy?

Patients with a tracheostomy tube in place after laryngectomy will usually have it removed within 24-48 hours of surgery. The stoma site will have sutures, so removal depends on the suture material used, as well as local policy and consultant guidance.

What is the difference between a tracheostomy and a laryngectomy?

A tracheostomy is a surgical opening to access the tracheal lumen with the entire larynx remaining intact (D). In contrast, after total laryngectomy, the trachea is brought to the skin as a stoma, which no longer has any anatomical connection with the oropharyngeal cavity and digestive tract (C).