Treatment aspects

In an attempt to restore some of the lost “nose” functions, the use of heat and moisture exchangers (HME’s) was introduced. With such a device it appears possible to reduce the diurnal loss of water through the exhaled air (500 ml) by approximately 60%. In several studies the positive influence of a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) on respiratory problems could be established.5,6 The study results indicated that the regular use of an HME can lead to a significant improvement of the respiratory and the related psychosocial problems of laryngectomized patients. Significant reductions were found in the mean daily frequency of sputum production, stoma cleaning and forced expectoration. Consequently several aspects of daily life, e.g. feelings of fatigue and malaise and sleeping problems, improved. The use of the HME also influenced the voice quality in a positive way. The positive effects of an HME also could be established objectively: a significant improvement over time in the inspiratory flow-volume values has been observed.6