Predicting failure to speak after laryngectomy.

Postlaryngectomy speech rehabilitation involves interactive psychosocial and physiological considerations. Progress may be facilitated by early identification and timely management of counterproductive factors. A retrospective review of patient records was conducted to identify salient factors in the rehabilitative processes of these patients. A method for using these factors predictively is proposed. Application of this procedure may result in improved efficiency of treatment and management of clinical resources.