Definition

1. Noun:
   • A surgical operation to remove part or the entire larynx (voice box). This procedure is most commonly performed as a treatment for laryngeal cancer.

Usage

• The word laryngectomy is a medical term. It is used specifically to describe the surgical procedure itself, its necessity, or its consequences.
• It is typically used in clinical, academic, or patient-education contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The patient underwent a laryngectomy to remove the tumor.
  • A total laryngectomy results in a permanent tracheostomy.
  • Recovery from a laryngectomy involves learning new methods of communication.

Advanced Usage

• Types of Laryngectomy: The procedure can be specified further.
  • Total laryngectomy: Removal of the entire larynx.
  • Partial laryngectomy: Removal of only a portion of the larynx, which may preserve some vocal function.
• "to undergo a laryngectomy": This is the standard phrasing for having the operation.
  • He had to undergo a laryngectomy after the cancer diagnosis.

Variants and Related Words

• Laryngectomee (n): A person who has had a laryngectomy.
  • Support groups are available for laryngectomees.
• Laryngeal (adj): Pertaining to the larynx.
  • The laryngeal nerves were carefully preserved during surgery.

Synonyms

• Larynx removal: A descriptive, non-technical synonym.
• Voice box surgery: A common layperson's term for the procedure.

Related Terms (Medical Context)

• Tracheostomy: A surgical opening made in the windpipe (trachea), often created during or as a consequence of a total laryngectomy to allow breathing.
• Esophageal speech: A method of speaking learned by some laryngectomees, where air is swallowed and then released to create sound.
• Electrolarynx: A handheld electronic device that produces sound to help a laryngectomee speak.

Noun

1. surgical removal of part or all of the larynx (usually to treat cancer of the larynx)