FIRST RESULTS WITH THE BLOM-SINGER(R) ADJUSTABLE TRACHEOSTOMA VALVE

The Blom-Singer(R) adjustable tracheostoma valve (ATV) is a new trache ostoma valve, introduced in 1992 to improve voice rehabilitation after total laryngectomy. Little research has been done to evaluate the ben efits of this valve. Our study evaluates the advantages and disadvanta ges of using this device. Eighteen laryngectomized patients with a low -resistance Provox(R) voice prosthesis received an ATV, using minimal selection criteria. The patients are evaluated according to a specific protocol. The effectiveness of the humidifilter, valve and fixation m ethod and the benefits are evaluated. Approximately 66% of the 18 pati ents are still using the ATV. We report the differences between the cu rrent users and the dropout group. Patient factors are discussed that seem to have an impact on the effective use of the valve, such as age and mucus production. We consider the ATV to be a valuable device for fingerless speech in the laryngectomized patient.