What does laryngectomy mean?
Laryngectomy is the surgical removal of the larynx, the voice-box structure in the throat containing the vocal cords. The procedure may involve removing the entire larynx or only part of it, depending on the condition being treated and the extent of the disease. A total laryngectomy is a significant operation because it separates the airway from the digestive tract, so a permanent opening in the neck may be created to allow breathing. It can also affect swallowing, speech, and the protection of the lungs from food and liquid. After surgery, patients may develop speech using a voice prosthesis, an electronic device, or specialized techniques such as esophageal speech. The term is primarily used in medical and clinical settings.
nounSurgical removal of the larynx, the organ in the throat that contains the vocal cords and is involved in speech, breathing, and protecting the airway.
- The surgical removal of the larynx, either in whole or in part.
"The patient underwent a laryngectomy after the cancer spread to the larynx."
"Total laryngectomy is sometimes used to treat advanced cancer of the larynx."
"Following her laryngectomy, she began rehabilitation to learn a new way of speaking."
The plural is used when referring to multiple operations or cases.
"The surgeon has performed hundreds of laryngectomies during her career."
After a total laryngectomy, a person can learn to speak again with a voice prosthesis or an electronic speaking device.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does laryngectomy come from?
The word is formed from Greek larinx, meaning “larynx” or “voice box,” and the combining form -ectomy, meaning “surgical removal.” The suffix was established in medical terminology from Greek ektomē, meaning “excision” or “cutting out.” The compound entered English medical usage during the 19th century as surgical procedures involving the larynx became more widely developed.
Related word forms
How laryngectomy is actually used
This is a medical term. It is most often used in specialist and clinical contexts, particularly in oncology, otorhinolaryngology, and rehabilitation.
Easily confused with laryngectomy
Laryngectomy is the surgical removal of the larynx, whereas laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx that often causes a sore throat and hoarseness.