Laryngectomy

​Home care after surgery

1. Avoid strenuous activities until further instructions from your doctor.
2. Keep your wound clean and dry (do not touch or apply any ointment unless prescribed).
3. Clean the end tracheostome with Normal Saline solution at least 2 times/day.
4. If you are prescribed a laryngectomy tube or a laryngectomy button, wear it regularly to prevent narrowing of the end tracheostome opening.
5. Cover the tracheostome with a shield/towel during shower or shaving to prevent water or foreign objects from entering it.
6. Avoid working in an environment that is too hot/cold or polluted with dust and fumes.
7. Take pain medications as prescribed.

When to seek consultation after discharge?

1. Fever > 38 degrees Celsius.
2. Redness or swelling at tracheostome
3. Bleeding or foul smelling discharge from the tracheostome
4. Severe pain not controlled by prescribed pain relievers
5. Difficulty breathing or painful swallowing
6. Any other abnormal and/or prolonged symptoms
   

Who to contact for information after discharge?

If you need to clarify on any of the above conditions, you can contact:

• Your ward nurse clinician or
• Make appointment with the Head & Neck Centre to see your surgeon earlier

If you have further queries, please contact:

Head and Neck center

• For appointments, please call: (65) 6321 4377

• For Email: [email protected]