Utilization of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure to Improve Swallow Function in Patients Post Total Laryngectomy

Total laryngectomy is a procedure that involves surgical removal of the larynx and separation of the digestive and airway tracts. The procedure is typically conducted for cases of laryngeal cancer and intractable aspiration. Following this procedure, patients are no longer at risk for aspiration; however some patients continue to experience difficulties in propulsion of food or drink throughout the pharynx. Previous research has demonstrated a reduction in pharyngeal contractile pressure and increased pharyngeal transit time in patients post laryngectomy. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) may assist bolus propulsion in these patients by increasing pressure in the direction of bolus flow. This study aims to evaluate the utility of a CPAP mask to improve pharyngeal swallow outcomes during Video Fluoroscopic Swallowing Exam (VFSE) in patients with dysphagia following total laryngectomy. This specific population could be well-suited for this application, since the digestive tract and airway are completely separate and there is no risk of the aspiration into the airway.