Swallowing outcome after laryngectomy(SOAL) questionnaire

What is it about?

This is the first known study which describes the development and preliminary validation of a new questionnaire to assess swallowing specifically for individuals who have had their voice box surgically removed (laryngectomy).

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Why is it important?

Individuals who have a total laryngectomy have a permanent separation between the larynx and oesophagus. The functions of speaking, breathing and eating and drinking are therefore altered. The focus of rehabilitation has largely been on voice restoration. More recent changes to how individuals are treated for their cancer (more chemoradiotherapy upfront followed by surgery) has resulted in greater difficulties in swallowing for this unique group of patients.