How to care after laryngeal cancer surgery

Laryngeal cancer is a common malignant tumor, and its incidence rate accounts for about 20% of malignant tumors in the Department of Otolaryngology. Laryngeal cancer not only causes patients to have eating, speaking and breathing disorders, but also leads to a series of complications.

Surgical treatment is the main means to improve the survival rate and quality of life of laryngeal cancer patients. Postoperative observation and effective care of patients are an important part of surgical efficacy, prognosis and prevention of complications, and are also an important means to promote early recovery of patients.

After tracheotomy or total laryngectomy, the mucosa is prone to congestion, dryness, and sticky secretions. In addition, wound bleeding, exudate inflow, dust, etc., as well as inadequate nursing measures and weak expectoration are all causes of sticky sputum and airway obstruction. In order to prevent the formation of sputum crusts and maintain the normal function of bronchial epithelial cell cilia, it is necessary to use a moisturizing and expectorant, anti-inflammatory, detumescent, and laryngeal edema prevention method.

At the same time, when the patient coughs at the end of inspiration, timely and effective deep suction of sputum should be performed. Blood and sputum in the tracheal tube should be sucked out in time. It is not recommended to suction sputum regularly, but suction sputum when necessary. Pay attention to minimize the stimulation and time of sputum suction. Closely observe coughing, sputum, breath sounds, respiratory rate, etc., adjust the method and amount of airway humidification in time according to the viscosity of sputum, and assist patients to turn over and pat their backs regularly.

Large wound surface, poor drainage or loose bandage after laryngeal cancer surgery, and decreased immune function after surgery are the main causes of postoperative wound infection. Pay attention to observe whether the wound is red, swollen, exudate, or painful; adequately drain and appropriately apply pressure bandage, and keep the wound dressing clean and dry.