Original Provox Voice Prosthesis

The original Provox Voice Prosthesis is a self-retaining, indwelling, easy to manage device for prosthetic voice rehabilitation after total laryngectomy.

The prosthesis is suitable for laryngectomized patients with a tracheoesophageal (TE) fistula, also when created for several other types of voice prostheses. The Provox voice prosthesis is made of medical grade silicone rubber and is available in four shaft lengths, i.e. the distance between the esophageal and tracheal flange is 4.5, 6, 8 or 10 mm.

The other dimensions of the prosthesis are: diameter of the esophageal flange 14.5 mm, oval tracheal flange 12 x 16 mm, inner diameter of the shaft 5 mm and outer diameter 7.5 mm (i.e. 22.5 Fr.).

The tracheal flange entails an introduction string. The valve is molded in one piece with the prosthesis and is supported by a radiopaque ring (20% barium sulphate), to enhance the visibility on X-ray examination.

The Provox voice prosthesis is inserted in the TE-fistula and remains in situ without replacement by the patient. Primary introduction at the time of total laryngectomy is the method of choice, but secondary introduction at a later stage is also easily accomplished.

For the introduction and replacement of the prosthesis a special Guide Wire is available. This disposable instrument has a connector for easy attachment of the introduction string of the new prosthesis and an 8 mm stop for transoral removal of the remnant of the old prosthesis. It has a flexible tip, which facilitates its retrograde introduction through the esophagus and pharynx. If the guide wire becomes entrapped in the pharyngeal mucosa wall, the wire will bend near the tip and can still slide upwards through the pharynx.

Each prosthesis is packed together with a disposable scalpel and the disposable guide wire.