A NEW HEAT AND MOISTURE EXCHANGER WITH SPEECH VALVE (PROVOX(R) STOMAFILTER)

In previous studies investigating the influence of a heat and moisture exchanger on the respiratory and psychosocial problems of laryngectom ized patients, the value of regular use of such a device could clearly be established. However, the compliance with the use of these devices was not optimal, mainly due to problems related to the plaster and to the often troublesome combination of these HMEs with a voice prosthes is. Therefore, a prospective, clinical trial was undertaken to investi gate whether the use of a newly developed heat and moisture exchanger (HME, Provox(R) stomafilter) could improve the acceptibility of such a device. In total, 19 patients participated in this study, 13 men and six women. Vocal rehabilitation was achieved with a Provox(R) voice pr osthesis in all patients. Each of the patients was provided with a sup ply of HMEs for a 3-week trial period. The results showed that all pat ients were clearly positive about the valve used for digital occlusion of the stoma. Voicing was considerably facilitated and the intelligib ility improved. Problems experienced in previous studies related to th e adhesive tape, such as skin irritation, inadequate adherence and loo sening of the plaster by coughing or forced expectoration, could be so lved by the availability of the different adhesives included in this s ystem.