[Vocal rehabilitation after total laryngectomy by musculomucous tracheo-esophageal fistula. Results apropos of 27 cases].

Twenty seven cases of Myomucosal Tracheoesophageal shunt following total laryngectomy performed at Laennec Hospital are presented. The surgical technique which was initially reported by M. Strome is summarized. The advantages of this procedure as compared to other tracheoesophageal fistulas are discussed. The first sixteen cases of this series failed: 12 stenoses occurred and 4 flaps necrosed. The eleven last Myomucosal shunts of this series are functioning. Aspiration was only problematic in one case. Six of the eleven functioning shunts have excellent voicing; three other patients are able to voice before completion of speech therapy and one patient has a too short follow-up for voice evaluation. The authors emphasize the contra-indications for the procedure. Medical conditions that can potentially lead to flap necrosis include: arteritis, diabetes mellitus, and gastrointestinal reflux.