Hi, My mum is 3 weeks into recovery after a full laryngectomy. They fitted a valve during surgery but have had to remove it due to it leaking. She also is having trouble with leakage around somewhere else which is preventing her from being able to pass the swallow test and start eating and drinking again.They said it is taking longer due to radiotherapy pre- op. She is very depressed and distressed at the length of time this is taking!! has anyone encountered this? has anyone got any advise for me. I cant stand seeing my mum so distressed and down.
mandy xxx

Hi mandy, This happened to me, It took weeks for me to heal.
I was so down as wanted to go home but could not until I could swolow liquids.
They did tests with a blue dye and it kept leaking out of my neck.
Nothinh you can do just ait keep area clean and prayalways the last option for me.
Sorry cannot be more helpful but hope Mum get better soon.

Paul

Hello mango

I hope the doctors will be able to help with your mums swallowing problem. You might find these post regarding Update on Martyns Surgery and others from Laryngectomees Forum to be of some encouragement and help.

Best wishes
Vinod