Prosthetic devices in neoglottis surgery

The success of functional-voice restoration by means of the Staffieri technique or a modified version of it relies on the development of an appropriate prosthesis. Different models of prosthetic devices have been developed at Northwestern University and at other centers about the country. To date, our best results have been with the use of a modified tracheostoma vent made of silicone rubber. Each prosthesis must be custom-fitted to the patient. Even with the use of a prosthetic device, all the problems regarding aspiration and stenosis cannot be resolved. The development of the prosthesis itself is not without significant complications and problems.