COVID-19 and Total Laryngectomy-A Report of Two Cases

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2021 Jan;130(1):104-107. doi: 10.1177/0003489420935500. Epub 2020 Jun 25.

Abstract

Objective: To date, no cases have been reported on the effects of COVID-19 in laryngectomees.

Case presentation: We herein presented two clinical cases of laryngectomized patients affected by COVID-19, detailing their clinical course and complications.

Discussion: In our experience, permanent tracheostomy did not significantly affect the choice of treatment. However, dedicated devices and repeated tracheal toilettes may be needed to deal with oxygen-therapy-related tracheal crusting.

Conclusion: In conclusion, laryngectomees should be considered a vulnerable population that may be at risk for worse outcomes of COVID-19 due to anatomical changes in their airways. The role of the ENT specialist is to guide airway management and inform the support-staff regarding specific needs of these patients.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; coronavirus; laryngectomy; management.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Airway Management / methods
  • COVID-19 / therapy*
  • COVID-19 Drug Treatment
  • Humans
  • Humidifiers
  • Hypopharyngeal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Laryngeal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Laryngectomy*
  • Male
  • Oropharyngeal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Oxygen Inhalation Therapy / methods*
  • Pharyngectomy*
  • Pyriform Sinus
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck / surgery
  • Tracheostomy*