Session Key Points

  • Neck-only breathers can only breathe via their necks and not via the nose/mouth
  • A total laryngectomy involves an irreversible removal of the larynx so that the trachea ends on the front of the neck
  • Confusion can arise but clear communication between teams and the use of bedhead signs can reduce incidents
  • Effective speech is possible following laryngectomy via a variety of methods