After malignancies in the hypopharynx or cervical esophagus have been removed, the upper and lower ends of the jejunum are sutured in place of the excised organs were. Blood vessels are also anastomosed.
Taking air into the esophagus or producing sound at the new glottis after such surgery is often difficult. In some cases, however, speech has been successfully produced by tailor techniques to the individual situation and conditions.
Measures for speech practice
People who undergo esophageal reconstruction have no narrow space to serve as a new glottis like the inlet of the esophagus. Because of this, they have the advantage of relatively easily inhaling air into the esophagus without force. Most fluent esophageal speakers use such inspiration. It is therefore most important to establish a new glottis for voice production.
