To help throat cancer patients who lose their larynx speak again, scientists have been able to extend the life of the replaced voiceboxes by fighting off a fungal infection.
Researchers from University of Kent in the UK found that the replaced voice boxes would last much longer if they dealt with the fungal infection Candida albicans that was causing the silicone versions to fail.
They have developed clinical care for patients which is anticipated to be used worldwide for throat cancer patients.
It means patients may be able to carry on using silicone voice prosthesis for much longer, enabling them to still speak and reducing the risk of dangerous secondary chest infections.
The work will enable people who lose their larynx to maintain speech and enjoy a better quality of life, said Campbell Gourlay from Kent.
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