Dictionary

pharynx: In layman's terms, the throat, which is the tube that begins behind the nose with the nasopharynx and that connects to the windpipe and the esophagus.

Plummer-Vinson Syndrome: A possible precursor to esophageal cancer and indicative of an iron deficiency. Causes an overgrowth of webbed membranes in the throat. Also known as sideropenic dysphagia and Paterson-Brown-Kelly Syndrome.

pneumatic larynx: A non-electric mechanical device that acts as an artificial, air-driven voice box. Uses a tube to force air from the lungs through the stoma and into the mouth.

polyps: Benign growths on the vocal cords that can interfere with natural tones.

radiotherapy: Also radiation therapy, radiotherapy is the most common treatment for reducing the size of tumors and killing cancer cells. It may be administered externally or by implants.

sarcoma: Usually cancerous tumors that begin in connecting tissues before spreading to other parts of the body.

squamous cells: Flattened cells that typically line the interior of the throat and generate most cancers in this area, first on the surface and then by spreading deeper into tissues.

stoma: A surgically created opening at the front of the neck that allows a person to breathe, either temporarily or permanently. Used following partial or complete removal of the larynx or when certain conditions cause blockage to the windpipe from the mouth.

subglottis: The lower portion of the glottis that connects to the trachea.