Tracheomelodica: A Musical Device for Improving the Pulmonary Function of Laryngectomized Patients

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To determine the effectiveness of an innovative music instrument in improving the lung function of the patients undergoing total laryngectomy, this experimental study was conducted at Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen, Thailand, from January - December 2013. The Tracheomelodica, a modified melodica for use via tracheostomes, was applied in laryngectomized patients from day 3 to day 14 postoperatively. The pulmonary function, chest expansion, and quality of life were measured on the pre-operative day and the 3rd and 14th days post operatively. Nine cases were eligible and recruited for the study. The pulmonary function was improved after the rehabilitation period, especially the peak expiratory flow, which was found to be significantly improved. Chest expansion also significantly increased on day 14 as compared with day 3. The quality of life tended to improve after the rehabilitation period, but the difference was not statistically significant. Tracheomelodica is a self administrated new devise for post laryngectomy patients that can be easily used with potential benefits for pulmonary function postoperatively.