Total laryngectomy with tracheoesophageal conduit.

Tracheoesophageal puncture has made high-quality voice restoration readily available to most individuals who must undergo TL. Although none of these patients would voluntarily choose to undergo TL if not faced with a life-threatening condition, at least some achieve a better quality of life, including better vocal function, after treatment and rehabilitation. The methods involved in placement and maintenance of a tracheoesophageal prosthesis are straightforward and permit successful, long-term voice restoration for most patients. Although far from perfect, TL with TEP affords both quality and quantity of life to a group of individuals who currently have no alternative but to undergo debilitating surgery in an effort to extend their lives.