Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) with use of a prosthesis is nowadays a standard for voice restoration after laryngectomy. Different TEP approaches exist.
We retrospectively reviewed our series of patients who underwent TEP by a novel technique, based partially on the Lichtenberger endo-extralaryngeal needle carrier.
The instrument is covered with a protective Nelaton catheter and introduced via the mouth to the neopharynx/esophagus. No rigid endoscope is used for visualization of the TEP site.
The tip is palpated through the stoma at the posterior tracheal wall and incision is done to the catheter tip. The prosthesis is introduced through the mouth and the neopharynx in a retrograde fashion.