Abstract
Introduction:
The post-laryngectomy state is characterized by several alterations in lung function. A reliable estimation of lung function can be very useful in laryngectomees to prevent postoperative complications and to evaluate the results of the treatment.
Objective:
Characterize the presence of respiratory functional disorders and the functional pattern of laryngectomees through the use of an extratracheal device.
Methods:
This transversal study included 50 patients submitted to total laryngectomy at least 6 months prior to this investigation, as the treatment of choice for laryngeal cancer.
Results:
56% percent of the participants had altered breathing pattern, distributed as follows: 14 with obstructive pattern with no air trapping, 11 with obstructive pattern with air trapping and only 3 with restrictive pattern. On average, the diffusion decreased (74.3%) and airway resistance increased (121.7%) when compared to the expected average values for the Brazilian individuals.
Conclusion:
Most patients submitted to total laryngectomy present altered lung function, usually the obstructive type, frequently associated to a history of smoking.
KEYWORDS
Respiratory function tests; Spirometry; Plethysmography; Laryngectomy; Squamous cell