Dictionary

free flaps: Tissue usually taken from the intestine or forearm that is surgically transferred to help close the pharynx when large tumors are removed.

glottis: The middle part of the larynx and the space occurring between the vocal cords that is open during breathing and that closes to produce sounds.

HME (heat-moisture exchanging): Referring to devices that seal and protect a stoma while acting as a filter and humidifier for incoming air.

hemilaryngectomy: Also called a partial laryngectomy. A procedure in which certain parts of the larynx and cartilage may be removed. Often allows for re-sectioning of a vocal cord to help preserve some speech and sound action.