Effect of SVR post laryngopharyngoesophagectomy with gastric pull-up-1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Effect of secondary surgical voice restoration (SVR) post total laryngopharyngoesophagectomy with gastric pull-up repair.
IRAS ID
129794
Contact name
Mary Lee
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
City University London
Research summary
This cross-sectional study looks at a group of 6 participants recruited from University College Hospital (UCLH) who have undergone removal of the pharynx, larynx and oesophagus (PLO) as a result of extended cancer. The trachea (wind-pipe) is redirected out to the neck so that the airway is separated from the oesophagus. The stomach has been stretched (gastric pull-up), forming a reconstructed oesophagus. Participants have not had a voice for at least 6 months before undergoing a secondary surgical procedure to re-establish voice using a voice prosthesis. Previous research in alaryngeal voice focussed on ‘simple’ laryngectomies (Ferrand & Duncan, 2007; Noonan & Hegarty, 2010); or following a complex laryngectomy where the larynx is removed along with other structures, on swallowing function (Kelly, 2008; Shuangba, 2011). There are few studies focussing on self-report of voice quality, and whether voice restoration affects quality of life (QOL). Research questions will explore the relationship between QOL and voice quality. This may inform future professionals and patients on decisions regarding voice restoration.
Participants will be seen on 2 separate occasions in order to complete 2 questionnaires and participate in a semi-structured interview. Data will be collected a minimum of 6 months after voice restoration. The quantitative measures on QOL and voice quality will be collected using the University of Washington Quality of Life questionnaire (UWQOL) (Hassan & Weymuller, 1993) and the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) (Jacobson et al, 1997) respectively. The qualitative interview will explore themes around the experience of being without a voice post-surgery and the impact of voice restoration on physical, functional and emotional aspects of QOL. The research will be carried out at UCLH and will be NHS funded.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/1909
Date of REC Opinion
2 Dec 2013
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion