A leaking voice prosthesis can be frustrating. It does not necessarily mean you have done anything wrong.
How might you notice a leak?
You may cough during or after drinking or eating, or notice food- or drink-stained mucus. Changes in your voice or greater effort when speaking are also worth discussing with your team.
What can cause it?
Possible causes include deposits, wear, or bacterial and yeast build-up affecting the valve. Leakage can occur through the centre of the prosthesis or around its outside. These need different responses.
What should you do?
Follow the individual leakage plan provided by your speech and language therapist or hospital team. Cleaning as you have been taught may resolve a leak through the valve.
If leakage continues, or you suspect leakage around the prosthesis, contact your team promptly for instructions. Do not keep testing the leak by repeatedly drinking. Do not try to repair or remove the prosthesis yourself.
If you develop breathing difficulty, seek urgent medical help and explain that you have had a total laryngectomy and breathe through your neck.
Remember
Voice prostheses need replacement over time. Persistent leakage needs attention because food or fluid can enter the airway.
Further information
Atos Medical: tips for voice prosthesis users.
Cambridge University Hospitals: stoma and voice prosthesis care.
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About the author
Thomas Mølgaard
I live without a larynx following cancer. I am a laryngectomy peer-support consultant, speaker and founder of STOMAS. My aim is to give patients, their partners and loved ones, and healthcare professionals an honest insight into life after a total laryngectomy.