Q: My uncle recently went through an operation for throat cancer. He is 60 years old. Doctors operated him for around 9 hours. His throat has been repaired but his sound box has been removed. Now he can't speak. Doctors say they will put in a whistle. Is there any thing by which he can speak? Can you suggest me how he can speak again?

A:There are 3 major avenues for voice rehabilitation, namely: 1. Oesophageal speech 2. TEP 3. Electrolarynx Majority of my patients communicate effectively following laryngectomy. The choice of method depends on the needs in an individual case and the appropriateness of each method in a given case. The concerned surgeon should be able to provide the right help.