University of Twente Student Theses

Improved attachment method for an automatic speaking valve for laryngectomized patients

Thomson, B.R. and Gruisen, J.A.E. and Kessels, I.P.J. and Faessen, J.J. (2016) Improved attachment method for an automatic speaking valve for laryngectomized patients.

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Abstract:	The main aim of this report is to investigate and explore a possible alternative to the adhesives used in current practice for laryngectomies. In current practice the attachment of the speaking valves is far from optimal. The adhesives lose grip caused by excessive mucus and high pressure. This limits the daily life of the tracheostoma patients. To clarify the problem, the following question is proposed: how can the attachment of an automatic speaking valve be improved for laryngectomized patients? To answer this thesis, a list of requirements has been made. The primary functionalities which the solution must possess are an airtight sealing of the tracheostoma and remaining fixed to the tracheostoma, without endangering or inconveniencing the patient. To realize this, an intratracheal stent is designed with a protruding ring where the HME can be attached to. The possible choice of material for the prosthesis is either nitinol, PTFE or titanium. Current literature gives reason to believe that nitinol is a suitable material for the stent, whilst titanium appears to be a fit candidate for the ring. Coating is of great significance because this can lower the risk of infection and ensure proper ingrowth.
Item Type:	Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:	TNW: Science and Technology
Subject:	44 medicine
Programme:	Technical Medicine BSc (50033)
Link to this item:	https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/69853
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