Issue N# 4 - 1999
PHONIATRICS
The ultra-low resistance Groningen voice prosthesis : aerodynamic properties
Authors : R. P. Wong Chung, J. Geskus, H. F. Mahieu (Amsterdam)
Ref. : Rev Laryngol Otol Rhinol. 1999;120,4:245-248.
Article published in english 
Summary :
Post-laryngectomy voice rehabilitation using the low resistance (LR) Groningen voice prosthesis has over the past years provided good voice and speech results. The valve part of the prosthesis is largely responsible for the airflow resistance of the prosthesis. This study was performed to evaluate if by modifying the valve part of the LR Groningen prosthesis a lower airflow resistance in vitro could be achieved. Several prototypes with modified valves were tested. Based on the aerodynamic measurements the prosthesis with a single slit of 200° in the 'hat' of the esophageal flange was selected for further evaluation and named the ultra-low resistance (ULR) Groningen voice prosthesis. Aerodynamic measurements were performed and showed the airflow resistance of the ULR Groningen voice prosthesis to be significantly lower than the resistance of the LR Groningen and the ProvoxTM voice prostheses.
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